Feds investigating Tesla Full Self-Driving after four crashes, one fatality

• The NHTSA is investigating the safety of Tesla’s Full Self-Driving system
• Four crashes, including one fatal, have prompted the investigation
• Elon Musk unveils new autonomous vehicles amidst investigation

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has launched a probe into Tesla’s Full Self-Driving system following four documented crashes, one of which was fatal, according to a report by Reuters.

The investigation covers Tesla Model S, Model X, Model 3, Model Y, and Cybertruck vehicles equipped with the Full Self-Driving system. This includes vehicles manufactured between 2016 and 2024.

The NHTSA is specifically looking into crashes where the Full Self-Driving system was engaged during challenging visibility conditions such as sun glare, fog, or dust. One of the incidents involved a pedestrian fatality in Rimrock, Arizona, in November 2023.

Tesla Model 3 dashboard in Autopilot testing with IIHS [CREDIT: IIHS]

The NHTSA’s investigation will focus on the Full Self-Driving system’s performance in adverse visibility conditions. Tesla has been asked to provide information on any similar incidents and any system updates that may impact performance in such conditions.

Despite its name, Tesla’s Full Self-Driving system still requires active driver supervision and does not make vehicles fully autonomous. Truly self-driving cars are not yet available for consumers.

2024 Tesla Model Y. – Courtesy of Tesla, Inc.

In response to the investigation, Tesla CEO Elon Musk has unveiled new autonomous vehicles, including a two-seat Cybercab and a 20-seat autonomous shuttle concept called Robovan, slated for release before 2027.