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US automobile safety regulators have started an probe into Tesla cars featuring the full self-driving technology due to safety regulation breaches after numerous crashes.

Safety Agency Finds Safety Regulation Breaches

The NHTSA stated that the automaker's self-driving assistance system, which demands motorists to stay alert and take control when necessary, had caused vehicle behaviour that violated road safety regulations”.

This initial assessment by the NHTSA represents the first step before potentially seeking a recall of the vehicles if the authority determines they pose a risk to public safety.

Alarming Incident Reports

The regulatory body reported it had received accounts of nearly 3 million Tesla vehicles driving through red lights and traveling against the wrong way during lane changes while operating the system.

NHTSA confirmed it has six documented cases in which a Tesla vehicle, operating with FSD activated, “came to an intersection with a red light, proceeded to drive into the crossroads despite the red signal and was subsequently involved in a crash with other motor vehicles in the junction”.

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

Further Safety Concerns

The NHTSA announced it has found 18 reports and one media report claiming that Tesla cars, driving through an intersection with FSD engaged, “failed to remain stationary for the entire time 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 claimed that FSD “failed to give warnings of the system's planned actions as the car was approaching a red light”.

Ongoing Official Examination

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 started an investigation into over two million Tesla vehicles using FSD after four reported collisions in conditions of reduced visibility, such as bright sunlight, mist or dust clouds. One such accident, in 2023, was fatal.

Manufacturer's Official Stance

Tesla's website states that FSD is “intended for operation by a completely alert driver, who has their hands on the wheel and is prepared to take over at any time. While these capabilities are designed to become more capable, the presently active functions do not make the car autonomous.”

Automated vehicle technology continue to face increased scrutiny from safety agencies as the technology advances and practical implementation reveals potential challenges with current implementations.