San Francisco, California – The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has concluded its investigation into Tesla’s Autopilot system, which included an examination of numerous crashes, including 13 fatal incidents and many others resulting in serious injuries. The agency found that there was a safety gap due to a mismatch between drivers’ expectations and the system’s true capabilities, leading to misuse and avoidable accidents.
In response to the findings, NHTSA has initiated a new investigation to determine the effectiveness of the recall fix that Tesla implemented in December. The Office of Defects Investigation stated that Tesla’s weak driver engagement system was not suitable for Autopilot’s operating capabilities, highlighting a critical issue that needed to be addressed.
The closure of the initial probe, which began in 2021, marks the end of the government’s intensive scrutiny of Tesla’s Autopilot software. Concurrently, the Department of Justice is also examining the company’s technology claims, while the California Department of Motor Vehicles has accused Tesla of misleading advertising regarding Autopilot and Full Self-Driving beta software.
NHTSA’s investigation reviewed 953 reported crashes, revealing that a significant number involved foreseeable misuse of Autopilot, leading to collisions that could have been avoided with proper driver engagement. The agency identified three main categories of crashes, emphasizing the importance of driver attentiveness and engagement while using the system.
Despite Tesla’s instructions for drivers to remain alert and keep their hands on the wheel when using Autopilot, NHTSA and other safety groups have expressed concerns that the existing warnings and checks are insufficient. The agency criticized a recent software update meant to enhance driver monitoring, stating that it did not adequately address the safety issues associated with Autopilot’s operation.
Overall, the investigation highlights the need for improved safety measures and driver engagement systems in autonomous driving technology. As the investigation unfolds, stakeholders are closely monitoring Tesla’s response and the potential implications for the future of autonomous vehicle systems.