Federal safety regulators have requested detailed information from Tesla regarding the safety protocols of its upcoming driverless taxis set to debut in Texas. Tesla must demonstrate how these vehicles will operate safely under challenging conditions such as fog, sun glare, and rain. This scrutiny follows accidents involving Tesla’s driver-assistance software, prompting an investigation by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) into 2.4 million vehicles. Despite this, Elon Musk remains optimistic about the launch timeline, predicting a rapid expansion of the robotaxi service nationwide. Tesla’s stock performance reflects investor confidence, though it remains below its starting point for the year. Regulators have limited authority over fully autonomous vehicles due to the absence of federal self-driving regulations, but vehicles must still meet traditional safety standards. NHTSA can mandate recalls if necessary but cannot pre-approve launches. The agency’s inquiry includes questions about the number of taxis, deployment plans, remote monitoring capabilities, and safety evaluation processes. Musk envisions a future where passengers can sleep during trips, with autonomous driving available in many U.S. cities by year’s end. If this vision is delayed, Tesla’s stock valuation may face challenges.
— new from AP News
