Tesla is dealing with an investigation from US regulators over claims its self-driving robotaxis have been rushing in college zones – the newest hurdle in its long-awaited rollout of absolutely autonomous autos.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said it launched a preliminary probe into 1,000 Tesla Cybercabs and Model Y autos, which have a self-driving mode, from the 2026 model yr, according to a discover on the company’s website.
It stemmed from a grievance that the self-driving taxis have been caught rushing through lively college zones in at least 4 incidents, including video footage as evidence, regulators said. The NHTSA has not yet determined whether to launch a full-fledged investigation.
Tesla is dealing with scrutiny over its self-driving Cybercabs. Austin American-Statesman via Getty Images
Elon Musk’s automaker launched its highly-anticipated robotaxi service in Austin, Tex., late last yr, though it was a restricted rollout and the autos still required human drivers on-board.
The electric vehicle-maker adopted up last month with its driverless Cybercab – a new model without conventional controls like a steering wheel or brake pedals.
Musk has billed the Cybercab as a key side of the company’s long-term path to growth, as effectively as a focus on AI and robots, as Tesla has suffered with slumping gross sales of its electric vehicles – but it’s been a bumpy experience for robotaxis.
In September, the NHTSA launched another investigation into whether Tesla correctly licensed its autonomous Cybercabs, after the shiny gold autos were recorded driving around the streets of Austin.
Waymo, the main robotaxi operator, has also confronted points in college zones. Saklakova – stock.adobe.com
Waymo – the main robotaxi operator owned by Alphabet – has also raised several security considerations, including points with college zones.
The NHTSA equally probed Waymo last yr following reports its self-driving vehicles may have failed to absolutely gradual or stop for college buses.
In January, Waymo again confronted scrutiny after one of its self-driving autos struck a little one close to an elementary college in Santa Monica.
The little one got up and walked to the sidewalk after the incident, and Waymo called 911, according to the company. The little one had minor accidents.
Tesla did not immediately reply to The Post’s request for remark.
