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U.S. authorities have launched an official investigation into nearly 2.88 million Tesla vehicles equipped with the Full Self-Driving (FSD) system, Reuters reports.
The probe was prompted by over 50 reports of traffic violations and several accidents linked to the use of FSD. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) noted that FSD, an advanced driver-assistance system that still requires driver attention, may cause vehicles to behave in ways that violate traffic safety rules, including running red lights and driving the wrong way during lane changes.
So far, NHTSA is reviewing 58 incidents, including 14 crashes that injured 23 people. In six cases, Teslas with FSD engaged ran red lights at intersections, colliding with other vehicles; four of these accidents resulted in injuries. The investigation is in its early stages and could lead to a large-scale vehicle recall if the agency finds a serious safety risk.
This scrutiny comes amid growing Congressional attention on Tesla’s technologies and shortly after the appointment of a new NHTSA head. Tesla has not yet issued an official statement, though the company recently updated its FSD software. Following the news, Tesla shares fell 2.1% in early trading.
