NHTSA also wants to get involved into Tesla Robotaxi launch

Tesla has started its Robotaxi rides in Austin, Texas, and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has already shown its interest in getting involved in the launch week, but it’s not for testing.

According to media reports, NHTSA is seeking information on Robotaxi launch day mistakes and errors recorded by random people and early access testers. Some people labeled the Robotaxi’s driving technology “chaotic”.

A video of the robotaxi engaging hard brakes on the road is also a part of NHTSA’s consideration of knowing more about the vehicle’s public safety standards.

The video and the description confirmed that the vehicle has shown this instant braking for “stationary police vehicles outside its driving path”. Tesla’s FSD system is designed to prioritize public safety, including pedestrians, emergency vehicles, as well as known road safety standards.

You may also see the robotaxi pulling over for emergency conditions, including an approaching ambulance. This glitch might have happened for the same safety reason, but the car could have been parked in a place rather than in the middle of the road.

Tesla Robotaxi

Another video is coming from Tesla Daily, where the robotaxi appeared confused en route to the destination. This was a glitch, but it could’ve caused serious trouble for other drivers behind.

A NHTSA spokesperson said that the agency is looking into these errors and has already contacted Tesla regarding the robotaxi for additional information.

Tesla is currently testing the Robotaxi in a geofenced area in Austin with limited invite-only testers. The company is taking feedback, and it will expand only when it feels safe enough to open the rides for public use.