NHTSA

Zoox, Amazon’s autonomous vehicle unit, recalled 105 robotaxis due to a software flaw that caused them to fail in detecting heavy smoke, leading some vehicles into active emergency scenes. This incident highlights ongoing safety challenges in AV development. The company proactively reported the issue to NHTSA and stated no injuries occurred. This voluntary recall coincides with NHTSA’s directive for AV developers to ensure their vehicles yield to first responders.

NHTSA is investigating a fatal Tesla Model 3 crash in Katy, Texas, reigniting scrutiny of the company’s driver-assistance systems. The 76-year-old victim died when the vehicle hit a home. Authorities report the driver used Tesla’s automated systems, but the circumstances and system’s role are under investigation, with conflicting accounts from Tesla representatives and CEO Elon Musk. This incident adds to ongoing concerns about Tesla’s ADAS safety and data access.

NHTSA has launched an engineering analysis into Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) software due to safety concerns. The investigation focuses on FSD’s performance and potential defects in degraded visibility conditions, such as fog or glare. This expanded probe covers approximately 3.2 million Tesla vehicles and follows an increase in collision complaints where FSD was active. The agency is examining whether the system adequately detects and warns drivers in such scenarios.

Waymo is under NHTSA investigation after a driverless vehicle struck a child near a Santa Monica elementary school. The child sustained minor injuries. Regulators are examining the AV’s caution near schools and Waymo’s response. This incident follows recent scrutiny regarding Waymo vehicles speeding in Los Angeles and illegally passing school buses in Austin, leading to separate NTSB and NHTSA probes. These events highlight the challenges and intense oversight of autonomous vehicle deployment.

Tesla is testing fully driverless vehicles in Austin, Texas, a significant step following the limited launch of its Robotaxi service. CEO Elon Musk confirmed the occupantless tests, signaling progress toward Tesla’s long-held autonomous driving goals. This news boosted Tesla’s stock, nearing a record high. While the company is rolling out its Robotaxi app, challenges remain, including previous incidents involving vehicles with safety drivers. Regulatory landscapes are also evolving, with Texas set to implement new authorization requirements for commercial autonomous vehicle use in 2026. Tesla faces established competitors already operating robotaxi services in various markets.

US regulators (NHTSA) are investigating Tesla’s retractable door handles over safety concerns. Complaints cite malfunctions, especially with low battery voltage, trapping occupants, including children overheating inside. The investigation focuses on 2021 Model Y vehicles but includes related Model 3/Y models. NHTSA demands records by December 10, with potential penalties for non-compliance. The investigation follows reports of injuries and fatalities and comes as industry, and Chinese regulations, prioritize simpler, safer door handle designs with accessible emergency releases.

The NHTSA is investigating Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) system after reports of safety defects. The investigation covers roughly 2.9 million Tesla vehicles equipped with FSD (Supervised) or FSD (Beta). At least 44 incidents involve Tesla drivers using FSD reporting the system caused traffic violations resulting in collisions. The agency will evaluate the clarity of warnings, driver reaction time, and FSD’s ability to respond to traffic signals. The probe comes as Tesla continues to develop and test its FSD technology, including Robotaxi services.