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

Safety Agency Finds Safety Regulation Violations

The NHTSA declared that the automaker's self-driving assistance system, which requires motorists to remain attentive and intervene if needed, had “induced car behavior that violated road safety regulations”.

This early investigation by the NHTSA marks the first step before possibly seeking a withdrawal of the cars if the agency determines they present a danger to public safety.

Alarming Case Findings

The agency reported it had received reports of 2.88 million Tesla cars driving through red traffic lights and traveling in the wrong direction during lane changes while using the technology.

NHTSA confirmed it has six documented cases in which a Tesla car, operating with FSD engaged, “approached an intersection with a red traffic signal, proceeded to drive into the crossroads despite the red light and was subsequently part of a crash with other motor vehicles in the intersection”.

The authority reported that four crashes had resulted in one or more injuries.

Further Safety Concerns

The NHTSA announced it has identified 18 complaints and one news account claiming that Tesla vehicles, driving through an junction with FSD engaged, did not stay stationary for the duration of a red light, failed to stop fully, or did not properly recognize and show the proper traffic signal state in the vehicle interface”.

Some complainants also stated that FSD “did not provide alerts of the system's planned behaviour as the car was approaching a red traffic signal”.

Continuing 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 October 2024, the authority started an inquiry into 2.4 million Tesla cars equipped with FSD after four documented crashes in conditions of reduced visibility, such as sun glare, fog or dust clouds. One of these collisions, in 2023, was fatal.

Manufacturer's Stated Position

The company's official position indicates that FSD is “intended for operation by a fully attentive motorist, who has their hands on the wheel and is prepared to take over at any moment. While these capabilities are designed to improve over time, the presently active functions do not make the vehicle self-driving.”

Automated vehicle technology continue to face increased scrutiny from regulatory bodies as the systems develop and practical implementation reveals potential challenges with existing deployments.