Why Federal Safety Regulators are Eyeing Tesla’s Robotaxis: Key Insights from TechCrunch

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Why Federal Safety Regulators are Eyeing Tesla’s Robotaxis: Key Insights from TechCrunch

Federal safety regulators have contacted Tesla shortly after the automaker started offering rides in its robotaxis in Austin. The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reached out to Tesla following several videos that surfaced online, showing the robotaxis seemingly breaking traffic laws in South Austin.

NHTSA confirmed that it’s investigating these incidents. In a statement, they said, “We are in contact with the manufacturer to gather additional information.” They emphasized their commitment to ensuring safety on the roads and their role in monitoring vehicle compliance with safety standards.

This rollout marks a key moment for Tesla, as it tests its autonomous vehicle technology in a real-world setting. While the company sells its Full Self-Driving software to vehicle owners, the robotaxis use an unsupervised version of this tech. A human “safety monitor” is present in the front seat during rides to oversee operations.

Recent videos reveal some unsettling behavior from the robotaxis, including driving over the speed limit and swerving into the wrong lane. Ed Niedermeyer, an expert on Tesla and author of “Ludicrous: The Unvarnished Story of Tesla Motors,” has been monitoring the rollout. He recorded instances where a Tesla suddenly braked for no apparent reason, particularly when near police vehicles.

The conversation around autonomous vehicles has intensified. A recent survey indicated that 47% of Americans are unsure about the safety of self-driving cars. Moreover, historical advancements in vehicle automation, such as cruise control and lane-keeping assist, show a gradual evolution towards today’s fully automated systems.

As Tesla continues to explore this technology, experts urge a balanced approach to innovation and safety. For more details on NHTSA regulations and safety standards, you can visit their official page here. The developments in Austin could shape the future of automated transportation, making it essential to watch closely.



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autonomous vehicles,robotaxi,Tesla