Tesla’s Autopilot: A Closer Look at the NHTSA Investigation into Driver Assistance System Safety

In response to concerns over accidents that occurred after a software update on vehicles called for maintenance, the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has launched an investigation into Tesla’s Autopilot driver assistance system. The agency announced the start of the investigation on Friday, expressing concerns about preliminary test results that raised further concerns.

The investigation concluded a three-year probe into Tesla’s driver assistance system, revealing security flaws. Tesla has made software updates to address some of the agency’s concerns, but the NHTSA remains cautious. The agency’s repair recall investigation covers various Tesla models equipped with a driver assistance system, including the Cybertruck, manufactured between 2012 and 2024.

NHTSA began investigating Tesla’s driver assistance system in August 2021, finding at least 13 accidents involving deaths or serious injuries linked to abuse of the system. There is concern that the Autopilot name could mislead drivers into over-relying on automation. 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 the driving assistant. The company’s biggest repair call to date aimed to raise awareness among drivers about safety and prevent future accidents linked to misuse of autopilot technology. The investigation continues with ongoing concerns about potential risks associated with this advanced technology