US Regulator Investigates Tesla Cybercab Following Launch

The US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has opened an investigation into Tesla's new driverless Cybercab. The vehicle, a two seater without a steering wheel or brake pedals, began picking up members of the public in Austin, Texas, on the same day the federal probe was announced. Tesla plans to deploy the vehicles on its Robotaxi ride hail network, which currently operates in several cities across Texas and Florida.

The investigation, termed an Audit Query, focuses on whether the Cybercab meets federal safety standards. While the NHTSA is currently updating rules regarding parts like brake pedals and rearview mirrors, older standards remain in effect. Other driverless companies, such as Amazon subsidiary Zoox, applied for exemptions from these rules. Tesla has stated that it does not require an exemption because its vehicles comply with all existing safety standards.

NHTSA Administrator Jonathan Morrison stated that the agency supports the development of automated vehicles but must ensure all laws are followed. Former acting NHTSA administrator Ann Carlson suggested the investigation indicates the agency is frustrated that Tesla did not follow the exemption process used by other developers. Potential outcomes of the probe include required changes to the vehicle or civil penalties.

Reporting on the event varied by political lean. Center left sources focused on the specific regulatory conflict and the lack of steering wheels or pedals. The center source framed the event as Elon Musk pushing the limits of regulation.