Tesla Autopilot Under Investigation by NHTSA: Concerns over Safety Flaws and Misleading Marketing

In response to concerns about accidents that occurred after a software update was installed on vehicles called for maintenance, the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has launched an investigation into Tesla’s Autopilot driver assistance system. The agency announced the start of the investigation on Friday, expressing its concerns about safety flaws in the system.

The NHTSA’s probe is focused on Tesla’s driver assistance system and covers various models equipped with this feature, including the Cybertruck, manufactured between 2012 and 2024. The investigation began in August 2021 and has already uncovered at least 13 accidents involving deaths or serious injuries linked to the abuse of the system.

One of the main concerns raised by the NHTSA is that the Autopilot name could mislead drivers into over-relying on automation, putting them at risk on the road. Consumer Reports also highlighted safety issues with Tesla’s driver assistance system after testing the software update. In response to these findings, Tesla called in over two million vehicles for maintenance in December, emphasizing the importance of driver attention to safety when using driving assistance systems.

Tesla’s biggest repair call to date aimed to raise awareness among drivers about safety, but concerns about potential risks associated with Autopilot continue to persist. The NHTSA will continue investigating Tesla’s driver assistance system as it seeks to ensure that it meets high standards of safety and reliability.