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US automobile safety regulators have commenced an probe into Tesla cars featuring the autonomous driving system due to safety regulation breaches after multiple accidents.

Safety Agency Identifies Traffic Law Breaches

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration stated that the electric carmaker's autonomous driving feature, which demands drivers to stay alert and take control when necessary, had caused car behavior that violated road safety regulations”.

This early investigation by the NHTSA represents the initial phase before possibly seeking a withdrawal of the cars if the agency concludes they pose a risk to public safety.

Alarming Case Findings

The agency reported it had documented reports of 2.88 million Tesla vehicles running red lights and traveling against the incorrect way during lane changes while using the technology.

NHTSA stated it has six reports in which a Tesla vehicle, using full self-driving activated, “approached an junction with a red traffic signal, proceeded to drive into the intersection despite the red signal and was later part of a collision with other motor vehicles in the intersection”.

The agency reported that four accidents had resulted in injuries to occupants.

Further Safety Concerns

The NHTSA announced it has identified 18 complaints and one media report claiming that Tesla cars, driving through an intersection with FSD engaged, “failed to remain stopped for the duration of a red light, failed to stop fully, or did not properly recognize and display the proper light status in the vehicle interface”.

Some complainants also stated that FSD “did not provide alerts of the technology's planned actions as the vehicle was approaching a red light”.

Ongoing Regulatory Scrutiny

The full self-driving system, which is more advanced than its basic autopilot feature, has been under investigation by NHTSA for twelve months.

In late 2024, the agency began an inquiry into 2.4 million Tesla vehicles using FSD after four reported collisions in situations of reduced visibility, such as bright sunlight, mist or dust clouds. One such accident, in last year, was deadly.

Manufacturer's Official Stance

The company's official position indicates that FSD is “designed for use with a completely alert motorist, who has their hands on the wheel and is ready to take over at any moment. While these capabilities are designed to improve over time, the currently enabled features do not render the car autonomous.”

Automated car systems continue to face growing examination from regulatory bodies as the technology advances and practical implementation reveals potential challenges with existing deployments.