Tesla is facing an investigation from the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) over the safety of its Autopilot driver assistance system. The NHTSA announced the start of the investigation on Friday, citing concerns about accidents that occurred after a software update was installed on vehicles called for maintenance. The agency also highlighted preliminary test results that raised further concerns.
The three-year probe into Tesla’s driver assistance system has revealed security flaws, and while Tesla has made software updates to address some of the agency’s concerns, the NHTSA remains cautious. The investigation covers various Tesla models equipped with a driver assistance system, including the Cybertruck, manufactured between 2012 and 2024.
Consumer Reports also highlighted safety issues with Tesla’s driver assistance system after testing the software update. In response, Tesla called in over two million vehicles for maintenance in December, emphasizing the importance of driver attention to safety when using the driving assistant. The company’s biggest repair call to date aimed to raise awareness among drivers about safety.
The investigation continues, with concerns about potential risks associated with the Autopilot system remaining high. While Tesla has made efforts to improve its technology and ensure that drivers understand its limitations, there is still much work to be done before we can fully trust this technology on our roads.
