The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has formally requested Tesla provide detailed information regarding its upcoming plans to launch a paid robotaxi service in Austin, Texas.
According to a letter from the NHTSA to Tesla, published on May 12, the agency cited concerns about the performance of Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) technology in poor weather conditions and reduced visibility.
Tesla plans to launch its robotaxi service in Austin in June, using vehicles equipped with its FSD software. However, recent collisions involving Teslas during fog, rain, and other visibility-reducing conditions have prompted increased scrutiny from regulators, resulting in a NHTSA investigation.
In its latest inquiry, NHTSA is seeking answers from Tesla on several points related to its robotaxi plans: (via Reuters)
- The number of vehicles designated for robotaxi use.
- The technology stack enabling autonomous operation.
- How Tesla will ensure safe operation in adverse weather.
- Whether Tesla will provide real-time monitoring or supervision of robotaxi fleets.
- How Tesla’s robotaxi systems comply with existing industry automation standards.
The agency specifically requested information on the role of cameras and sensors in ensuring safe operations under conditions like sun glare, fog, dust, rain, or snow. Additionally, NHTSA wants to know what safety protocols are in place if poor visibility is encountered mid-ride.
Tesla has not publicly responded to NHTSA’s latest request for information. The company has until June to provide the requested details.
This news comes after the NHTSA announced last month a new Automated Vehicle (AV) Framework aimed at reducing regulatory barriers for AV development and deployment. The updated rules streamline crash reporting requirements for vehicles with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and fully autonomous driving systems (ADS), while also expanding the Automated Vehicle Exemption Program to include domestically manufactured AVs.
These changes are particularly beneficial for Tesla, which is preparing to launch its dedicated Cybercab robotaxi vehicle in 2026. Under the revised framework, Tesla can deploy vehicles that lack traditional controls like steering wheels and pedals, bypassing certain Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS).
