The federal government’s main auto safety agency, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, is investigating Tesla’s recall of its Autopilot driver-assistance system. The agency expressed concerns that Tesla had not taken enough measures to ensure drivers remained attentive while using the technology.
The investigation stems from Tesla’s recall of two million vehicles in December, covering nearly all cars manufactured in the U.S. since 2012. The safety agency raised concerns about post-recall crashes and preliminary test results of the recalled vehicles.
This investigation adds to Tesla’s recent challenges, as the company experienced an over 8% drop in sales in the first quarter of the year. The recall was initiated after the agency found that Tesla had not implemented sufficient safeguards to ensure safe use of the Autopilot system, which can control acceleration, braking, and other functions.
The agency identified at least 13 fatal crashes related to the use of Autopilot, leading to lawsuits from individuals claiming the system is defective. The recall includes a wireless software update with enhanced visual alerts to remind drivers to keep their hands on the wheel and pay attention to the road.
Tesla has not responded to requests for comment on the investigation. The agency also criticized Tesla for allowing customers to opt in and undo the recall changes, as well as issuing updates that were not agreed upon in advance.
Despite these setbacks, Tesla and CEO Elon Musk have defended Autopilot and the Full Self-Driving system, arguing they make cars safer. The company has faced scrutiny for other issues, including a recent recall of nearly 4,000 Cybertruck pickups due to a potential accelerator pedal issue.
As Tesla faces increasing competition in the electric vehicle market, its market share in the U.S. has declined. Musk announced plans to cut 10% of the workforce and two senior executives have left the company. These challenges come as Tesla works to maintain its position in the evolving electric vehicle industry.
