US Regulator Investigates Teslas Self-Driving Taxi Allegations of Traffic Violations

Tesla is under investigation by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) following reports of its autonomous taxis allegedly violating traffic regulations. According to a report from Reuters, the agency discovered videos showing vehicles purportedly operating in the wrong lane and exceeding speed limits, prompting them to request more information from Tesla.

Previously, the company launched a driverless taxi service, with test rides taking place in Austin. Social media footage indicated that initial trials went smoothly, as autonomous Model Y SUVs navigated short distances, intersections, avoided pedestrians, and parked themselves.

Nevertheless, there were some issues. In one incident, a passenger pressed the stop button, but the vehicle only slowed briefly on the road before resuming its journey.

The NHTSA frequently requests data from automakers after receiving reports of questionable behavior from advanced driver assistance systems or automated driving algorithms.

The agency clarified that «by law, it does not pre-approve new technologies or vehicle systems.» Car manufacturers assert that all vehicles meet stringent safety standards, while the agency investigates incidents related to potential defects.

Since October 2024, the NHTSA has been examining Tesla accidents involving Full Self-Driving software under low visibility conditions.

It’s worth noting that in May 2025, testing of autonomous vehicles as public transport began in Germany.