The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has launched a new investigation into Tesla's Full Self-Driving (FSD)-technology after several low visibility accidents were reported in which a pedestrian was fatally injured.
Background to the investigation
According to a report by the NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) the investigation was triggered by four recent accidents in which Tesla-vehicles in the FSD mode under reduced visibility conditions. In November 2023, a tragic incident occurred in Rimrock, Arizona, in which a Tesla Model Y hit and fatally injured a pedestrian. Another accident resulted in injuries to the occupants.
Objectives of the NHTSA investigation
The ODI of the NHTSA the ability of the FSD system to react appropriately to poor visibility conditions. In addition, it will be checked whether the Tesla updates have improved the safety of the system. The authority will also investigate further cases of FSD accidents under reduced visibility conditions.
Possible consequences for Tesla
This examination is a so-called "preliminary examination". If there is a problem with the FSD is identified, the investigation could be escalated to a technical analysis. The results could lead to either a physical recall (which is unlikely) or an over-the-air (OTA) software update.
This is not the first time that FSD or autopilot from Tesla under the leading magnifying glass. In April 2024, the NHTSA completed an investigation of the autopilot after it was found that drivers using the system were not paying sufficient attention.
Implications for future developments
The results of this investigation could have significant implications for Tesla's plans to develop the unattended FSD in Texas and California by 2025. Tesla has announced that it will Full Self-Driving-technology in order to increase the autonomy of vehicles and improve safety.
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