NHTSA contacts Tesla after Model Y robotaxis behave erratically in Austin

NHTSA contacts Tesla over Model Y robotaxis

The US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is seeking discussions with Tesla after online footage appeared to show the manufacturer’s Model Y-based robotaxis acting unpredictably. The clips were recorded during the launch of the autonomous service in Austin, Texas, earlier this week.

One incident shows a robotaxi braking sharply as it passes a parked police vehicle with its blues-and-twos activated. In another, the taxi appears indecisive after crossing the centre line, seemingly uncertain whether to enter a filter lane or turn left. It ultimately finishes on the incorrect side of the road, while the safety driver remains in the passenger seat.

The NHTSA told TopGear.com: “[The agency is] aware of the referenced incidents and is in contact with the manufacturer to gather additional information. NHTSA will continue to enforce the law on all manufacturers of motor vehicles and equipment, in accordance with the Vehicle Safety Act and our data-driven, risk-based investigative process.

"Under U.S. law, NHTSA does not pre-approve new technologies or vehicle systems – rather, manufacturers certify that each vehicle meets NHTSA’s rigorous safety standards, and the agency investigates incidents involving potential safety defects. Following an assessment of those reports and other relevant information, NHTSA will take any necessary actions to protect road safety."

Tesla Full Self-Driving investigation continues

The safety agency is also continuing its investigation into Tesla’s "Full Self-Driving (Supervised)/Beta systems – the driver-assistance technology rather than full self-driving – after four crashes involving vehicles that "entered reduced visibility conditions", including fog and sun glare. One of those crashes resulted in a fatality. TopGear.com has contacted Tesla for comment.

Uber robot taxis and UK approval

Meanwhile, the UK government has brought forward its plans to have Uber robot taxis operating on London’s roads as soon as next year. Professor Siddartha Khastgir, Warwick University’s head of safe autonomy, said: "The UK is well positioned to avoid such incidents due to the regulatory regime it has, i.e., type-approval regime.

"Once Uber applies for the license, its application will be assessed by the DfT and its agencies (namely Vehicle Certification Agency) who will do a thorough audit of their development and the product. A big part of this assessment would be the product’s compliance to UK’s traffic rules and its behaviour."

Khastgir said that, even with the best intentions, it is not possible to anticipate every situation. He added: "It is essential to capture these scenarios, learn and share them with the wider ecosystem. That’s how aviation has established its high bar of safety today, and is still the safest form of transport."