NHTSA Begins Review after Launching Tesla Driverless Taxis in Austin

The US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) initiated a review of Tesla less than a day after the launch of paid trips on self-driving taxis of the company in Austin, Texas. The reason was video materials that recorded traffic violations by cars participating in the new robotaxi program.

In an official comment, NHTSA representatives confirmed that they are collecting information about documented incidents and are in contact with Tesla. The agency reminded that all manufacturers are responsible for compliance with federal vehicle safety standards, and inspections and investigations are conducted based on data analysis and assessment of potential risks.

The Department stressed that it does not pre-certify new automotive technologies. In accordance with American law, automakers independently declare that products meet safety requirements, while NHTSA conducts follow-up investigations if there are signs of defects. Based on the collected information, the agency takes corrective measures to ensure the safety of road users.

Commercial transportation involving Tesla driverless taxis began on Sunday and is still available to a limited number of customers in the South Austin area. This is the first time that Tesla's autonomous driving technology has been used in a real-world environment with paid users.

The work involves a version of the Full Self-Driving (FSD) system, whose internal architecture used in driverless taxis remains partially closed to the public. Unlike the production version of the FSD, which requires constant monitoring by the driver, driverless cars in Austin use a modified configuration. However, during each trip, there is a specialist in the front passenger seat — a "safety controller" who monitors the behavior of the car.

Against the background of the launch, numerous videos appeared showing dangerous maneuvers on the part of Tesla's autonomous cars. In particular, cases of driving into the oncoming lane and speeding were recorded.

The investigation remains under NHTSA's control. The final actions of the regulator will depend on the results of the analysis of the provided data.