05:51 24-03-2026

Tesla Autopilot investigation expanded by NHTSA over safety issues

NHTSA investigates Tesla's Autopilot system after crashes in bad weather. Learn about camera-only approach vs. competitors and potential industry impacts.

The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has expanded its investigation into Tesla's Autopilot system. This move follows crash data suggesting potential issues with the technology under challenging weather conditions.

Tesla's approach stands out for relying solely on cameras instead of lidars and other sensors. Elon Musk has argued this strategy reduces costs and simplifies the system. However, regulators are now questioning this very choice.

NHTSA's findings indicate that in several accidents, the Full Self-Driving system failed to recognize visibility degradation—such as from camera glare or contamination. Drivers received no warnings, cutting reaction time and raising crash risk.

Unlike Tesla, competitors like Waymo use combined solutions with lidars and radars, which are considered more robust in difficult conditions, albeit at a higher cost. It's worth noting that FSD remains a driver-assistance system, not a full self-driving solution. Despite this, Tesla actively promotes the technology and seeks to expand its use, including into the European market.

The investigation covers Tesla vehicles produced since 2016 and could influence the future development of autonomous technology in the industry. Tesla's bet on cameras is bold but risky. If regulators confirm systemic problems, the industry may decisively shift toward combined sensor approaches.