Topic

nhtsa

77 stories tagged nhtsa on EV Digest.

NHTSA Demands Answers from Tesla on Steering-Wheel-Free Cybercab Design

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued a Special Order to Tesla, compelling the automaker to provide sworn answers regarding the design and safety of its upcoming steering-wheel-free Cybercab robotaxi. This move puts Tesla's plans for a radical new vehicle form factor under intense scrutiny, with a strict September deadline for compliance. Failure to adequately address safety concerns could result in significant financial penalties and legal repercussions for the company.

September 16, 2026Motor1Tesla

NHTSA Questions Tesla's Cybercab Self-Certification Claim

Federal safety regulators are pressing Tesla for details on how it determined the forthcoming Cybercab robotaxi meets U.S. street-legal standards. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued an information request, giving Tesla a deadline to explain its self-certification process for the novel vehicle.

September 16, 2026InsideEVsTesla

NHTSA Demands Tesla Prove Cybercab Meets Federal Safety Standards

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued a special order to Tesla, requiring the automaker to demonstrate how its upcoming Cybercab robotaxi will comply with existing federal safety regulations. This directive specifically targets the vehicle's design, which reportedly lacks traditional controls like a steering wheel, pedals, and mirrors, prompting the agency to question its legality for sale in the U.S. market.

September 15, 2026ElectrekNHTSA

2026 Tesla Model 3 Achieves NHTSA's Top 5-Star Safety Rating

The 2026 Tesla Model 3 has secured the highest 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). This achievement continues Tesla's strong safety record, reinforcing confidence in the updated electric sedan's ability to protect occupants in various crash scenarios.

September 14, 2026Not a Tesla AppTesla

Congressman Urges NHTSA Action Amid Concerns Over Drivers Misusing Tesla's FSD

A U.S. congressman is calling on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to investigate the ongoing misuse of Tesla's Full Self-Driving (FSD) software, following reports of drivers falling asleep at the wheel. The demand highlights escalating safety concerns and the need for stricter oversight regarding advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) in EVs.

September 11, 2026InsideEVsNHTSA

Tesla Autopilot Engaged in Fatal Missouri Model Y Crash

A recent single-vehicle crash on Interstate 35 in rural Missouri, which claimed the life of a 64-year-old Tesla Model Y driver, reportedly occurred with the vehicle's Autopilot driver-assist system engaged. This detail, disclosed by Tesla to federal regulators, highlights ongoing scrutiny into the safety of advanced driver-assistance technologies. The incident is part of a broader investigation linking reported accidents to Tesla's internal data submitted to NHTSA.

September 10, 2026ElectrekTesla

NHTSA Audits Tesla's Cybercab Safety Certification Post-Austin Launch

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has initiated an audit into Tesla's self-certification process for its Cybercab robotaxi, which launched in Austin without a steering wheel. This investigation aims to scrutinize how Tesla validated the automated vehicle against existing U.S. safety standards. The move comes swiftly after the Cybercab's public debut, signaling regulatory interest in the safety of future autonomous vehicle deployments.

September 7, 2026Motor1NHTSA

Fatal Tesla Crash Investigated as Driver-Assist System Engaged in Stop Sign Violation

A recent fatal accident in New Jersey involving a Tesla Model 3 has drawn scrutiny after records confirmed the vehicle's Full Self-Driving or Autopilot system was active when it ran a stop sign. The incident resulted in the death of 82-year-old Stephen Field, raising further questions about the safety and responsibility surrounding advanced driver-assistance technologies. This comes as part of an ongoing investigation matching reported crashes with Tesla's data provided to NHTSA.

September 7, 2026ElectrekTesla

NHTSA Reportedly Investigating Tesla Cybercab Launch in Austin

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is reportedly probing the recent launch of Tesla's Cybercab robotaxi service in Austin, Texas. Concerns have emerged regarding the autonomous vehicles, which operate without a steering wheel, pedals, or side mirrors, and whether their deployment adhered to appropriate safety and regulatory standards.

September 6, 2026CleanTechnicaTesla

Tesla's Cybercab Faces Federal Safety Investigation Amid Deployment

As Tesla begins deploying its autonomous Cybercab service, the U.S. government has initiated an investigation into whether the robotaxis meet federal vehicle safety standards. This scrutiny comes despite previous statements from Tesla CEO Elon Musk suggesting the vehicles wouldn't require human drivers or traditional controls, raising questions about their design and regulatory compliance from the outset.

September 5, 2026Ars Technica - CarsTesla

NHTSA Launches Investigation into Tesla Cybercab's Self-Certification After Austin Deployment

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has initiated an investigation into Tesla's 'Cybercab' robotaxi program following its deployment in Austin, Texas. The federal agency is scrutinizing Tesla's self-certification process for the autonomous vehicles, raising questions about regulatory oversight in the burgeoning robotaxi sector.

September 4, 2026NHTSA Press ReleasesNHTSA

NHTSA Launches Investigation into Tesla Cybercab's Readiness for Public Roads

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has opened an audit query into Tesla's forthcoming Cybercab, a highly anticipated autonomous robotaxi concept. Regulators are scrutinizing the vehicle's design and features, specifically its apparent lack of traditional controls, to ensure it meets federal motor vehicle safety standards before potential deployment.

September 4, 2026The Verge - TransportationTesla

NHTSA Investigates Tesla Cybercab Over Regulatory Compliance

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has launched an investigation into Tesla's proposed Cybercab robotaxi service. Regulators are scrutinizing whether the driverless vehicle, designed without a steering wheel, can meet existing federal automotive safety standards. This probe could significantly impact Tesla's plans to deploy its autonomous taxi fleet.

September 4, 2026New York Times - TechnologyTesla

NHTSA Investigating Tesla's Cybercab Certification on Launch Day

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has initiated an audit into Tesla's Cybercab robotaxi, specifically scrutinizing the certification process for a vehicle operating without a steering wheel, pedals, or mirrors. This federal investigation began on the same day Tesla commenced passenger service for the autonomous vehicle in Austin, Texas. Regulators are examining how the company deemed the driverless design road-legal under current safety standards.

September 4, 2026ElectrekTesla

Tesla Confirms Autopilot/FSD Engaged in Fatal Motorcyclist Collision

Internal Tesla data submitted to federal regulators confirms that one of its vehicles was operating with its driver-assist system, either Autopilot or Full Self-Driving, active during a fatal collision with a motorcyclist last year. This incident, which largely escaped public notice, highlights challenges in tracking such crashes and the transparency of related data.

September 3, 2026ElectrekTesla

Tesla Confirms Full Self-Driving Was Active During Fatal Illinois Crash

A recent fatal collision in Batavia, Illinois, involving a Tesla Model Y that resulted in the death of a passenger, has been linked to the automaker's Full Self-Driving (FSD) system. Tesla's internal report to federal regulators confirms that FSD was engaged when the vehicle made a left turn, contributing to the incident. This disclosure is part of an ongoing investigation into the safety of advanced driver-assistance systems.

September 1, 2026ElectrekTesla

Lucid Recalls Over 27,000 Air Sedans Due to Potential Fire Risk

Lucid Motors is initiating a recall for more than 27,000 Air luxury electric sedans after the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) identified a potential fire risk. The issue stems from a component that could short circuit, leading to thermal events. This recall impacts nearly all Lucid Air vehicles produced to date, with owners advised to seek immediate inspection and repair.

August 28, 2026Reuters Autos (Google News)Lucid

NHTSA Expands Probe into GM's eBoost Brake System, Citing Safety Concerns Across 1.16 Million Vehicles

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has escalated its investigation into General Motors' eBoost braking system, affecting over 1.16 million vehicles, including specific EV models. This engineering analysis, which now encompasses certain GM, Honda, and Acura models, is examining reports of potential brake failures that could pose significant safety risks to drivers.

August 25, 2026Motor1NHTSA

NHTSA Expands Probe into 1.1 Million GM Vehicles, Including EVs, for Brake Assist Issues

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has broadened its investigation into General Motors, now covering over 1.1 million vehicles after numerous reports of brake assist failure. This expanded probe includes several GM electric vehicle models, alongside various internal combustion engine vehicles and those manufactured for Honda, highlighting a significant safety concern across a wide range of the automaker's offerings.

August 24, 2026ElectrekNHTSA

How to Check for Recalls on Your Tesla

Tesla frequently issues recalls, many of which are resolved through over-the-air (OTA) software updates. However, some recalls necessitate a visit to a service center for physical repairs. This guide explains how to determine if your specific Tesla vehicle is affected by a recall, whether it's software-related or requires a hardware fix.

August 13, 2026Not a Tesla AppTesla

NHTSA Recalls 2026 Genesis GV70 EVs for Battery Issue

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued a recall for certain 2026 Genesis GV70 electric vehicles due to a potential issue with their high-voltage battery. This recall addresses a manufacturing defect that could lead to a loss of power while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.

August 8, 2026NHTSA Press ReleasesNHTSA

Zoox Prepares for Paid Robotaxi Services Following NHTSA Approval

Zoox, Amazon's autonomous vehicle subsidiary, is set to begin charging passengers for its robotaxi services next week. This follows recent approval from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to deploy up to 5,000 self-driving vehicles, marking a significant step towards commercial operation. The move positions Zoox to compete in the burgeoning autonomous ride-hailing market.

August 7, 2026CleanTechnicaZoox

NHTSA Investigates Tesla's 'Full Self-Driving' System After Recent Crashes

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has launched a formal investigation into Tesla's advanced driver-assistance system, Full Self-Driving (FSD), following a series of recent crashes. This inquiry will scrutinize the system's performance and safety protocols to determine if any defects contribute to these incidents. The agency aims to ensure the safe deployment of such technologies on public roads.

August 1, 2026NHTSA Press ReleasesNHTSA

NHTSA Opens Probe Into Tesla Suspension Failures

U.S. safety regulators have launched an investigation into potential front suspension failures across a range of Tesla Model S and Model X vehicles. This preliminary evaluation, prompted by numerous owner complaints, aims to determine if a defect is causing components to prematurely wear or break, potentially affecting vehicle control.

August 1, 2026Bloomberg (Google News)Tesla

NHTSA Issues Recall For 2023 Chevrolet Bolt EUV Over Seat Belt Anchor Defect

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has announced a recall for certain 2023 Chevrolet Bolt EUV models. The recall addresses an issue where the shoulder belt anchor for the rear seats may have been incorrectly installed, potentially compromising occupant safety in a crash. Owners of affected vehicles are advised to contact their Chevrolet dealer for inspection and free repair.

July 31, 2026NHTSA Press ReleasesNHTSA

Zoox Secures U.S. Approval for Steering Wheel-Free Robotaxis to Offer Paid Rides

Amazon's autonomous vehicle subsidiary, Zoox, has received a significant regulatory green light to operate its purpose-built robotaxis for commercial paid services in the United States. This marks the first time that a vehicle designed without traditional manual controls like a steering wheel has been cleared for such widespread public use, signifying a major step forward for autonomous transport. The temporary exemption granted by NHTSA allows Zoox to deploy up to 2,500 of its unique pods annually, paving the way for expanded commercial operations.

July 31, 2026InsideEVsZoox

Zoox Gains NHTSA Approval to Charge for Driverless Robotaxi Rides

Amazon's autonomous vehicle subsidiary, Zoox, has received a crucial exemption from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), allowing it to commercialize its unique, steering-wheel-free robotaxis. This approval permits Zoox to deploy up to 2,500 vehicles annually for the next two years, moving closer to offering paid driverless ride-hailing services in the U.S.

July 31, 2026The Verge - TransportationZoox

Zoox Secures First Federal Approval For Robotaxis Without Manual Controls To Launch Paid Service

Amazon-owned Zoox has received a landmark exemption from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), permitting it to operate its purpose-built, human-control-free robotaxis on U.S. public roads for paid rides. This approval marks a significant step, distinguishing Zoox from other autonomous vehicle companies that have thus far relied on modified consumer vehicles with traditional driver controls.

July 31, 2026CleanTechnicaZoox

NHTSA Eyes New Regulations for Vehicle Door Handles to Improve Egress Safety

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has indicated its intent to propose new rules aimed at standardizing and simplifying how all vehicle doors are opened from the inside. This move seeks to prevent scenarios where occupants, particularly in emergency situations, struggle to exit a vehicle due to complex or unconventional door-opening mechanisms. While not exclusively targeting EVs, some newer electric vehicle designs have featured flush or unique door handle types that could be impacted.

July 28, 2026Motor1NHTSA

NHTSA Rejects Tesla Door Handle Probe, Eyes Broader Safety Rules for EV Doors

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has declined a petition to investigate Tesla's unconventional door handles. Instead of focusing on one automaker, the agency plans to develop new, broader safety regulations for vehicle door systems, potentially influencing future EV designs. This move aims to address potential safety concerns related to non-traditional door mechanisms across the automotive industry.

July 28, 2026Road & TrackNHTSA

New NHTSA Safety Rules May Require Tesla to Redesign Door Handles

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has indicated it will develop new rules for vehicle door latch and lock systems. This move stems from a petition highlighting safety concerns with electronic door releases, particularly in emergency situations. The potential new standards could impact Tesla and other automakers using non-mechanical door handles across their vehicle lineups.

July 27, 2026Not a Tesla AppTesla

NHTSA to Develop New Door Safety Regulations Following Tesla-Related Fatalities

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is initiating efforts to establish new safety standards for vehicle doors. This move comes after several incidents, including some involving Tesla vehicles, where occupants were unable to exit the car after crashes due to various door-related issues. The agency aims to address these concerns to improve post-crash egress for all vehicle occupants.

July 24, 2026Bloomberg (Google News)NHTSA

NHTSA Eyes New Safety Rules for Interior Door Releases After Tesla Recall

Following a recall of certain Tesla models over potential interior door release failures, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) announced it will develop new general regulations for interior door handles across all vehicles. This move aims to prevent occupants from being trapped inside cars during emergencies, a concern highlighted by the design of some Tesla door mechanisms. The new standards could impact future vehicle designs beyond Tesla.

July 24, 2026InsideEVsNHTSA

NHTSA Rejects Tesla Model 3 Door Investigation, Begins New Industry-Wide Safety Rules

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has denied a petition to investigate alleged defects in the manual door releases of 2022 Tesla Model 3 vehicles. This decision comes despite the agency simultaneously announcing plans to develop new door safety regulations that will apply to all automakers. NHTSA cited a lack of widespread complaints as the reason for denying the Tesla-specific probe.

July 24, 2026ElectrekNHTSA

NHTSA Eyes Stricter Door Safety Regulations Following Tesla Criticisms

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is considering new, broader regulations regarding vehicle door safety, spurred in part by concerns over Tesla's electronic door handles. While NHTSA declined to open a defect investigation into Tesla's specific door release mechanism, the agency acknowledges the broader safety implications for passengers exiting vehicles after a crash. This move suggests potential industry-wide changes to how car doors function in emergencies.

July 24, 2026The Verge - TransportationNHTSA

Tesla Reports Record 207 Autopilot and FSD Crashes in One Month to NHTSA

Tesla's assisted driving systems, Autopilot and Full Self-Driving (FSD), were involved in a record 207 reported crashes within a single month. This unprecedented number, disclosed by Tesla to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), coincides with the company's aggressive push for broader FSD adoption. Critics note that Tesla continues to redact critical incident details in these crash reports.

July 22, 2026ElectrekTesla

New Federal Headlight Standards To Address Glare From High-Output Tesla Beams

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is moving to implement new headlight performance regulations, prompted in part by complaints about excessive glare from modern high-intensity headlights, particularly those found on Tesla vehicles. This federal action could lead to better-designed adaptive lighting systems and a reduction in dangerous glare for oncoming drivers. The move comes as Congress has directed the agency to update outdated headlight standards.

July 21, 2026InsideEVsTesla

NHTSA Demands Tesla's 'Radar Saves Us' Document Amidst FSD Crash Investigation

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is intensifying its probe into crashes involving Tesla's Full Self-Driving (FSD) system, specifically in low-visibility conditions. A key development in this investigation is NHTSA's demand for an internal Tesla document titled 'Radar Saves Us,' signaling a focus on the company's decision to remove radar sensors from its vehicles. This request is part of a broader information demand sent to Tesla, highlighting federal scrutiny over the capabilities and safety of FSD, particularly as it relates to sensor configurations.

July 21, 2026ElectrekTesla

NHTSA Presses AV Developers on First Responder Interference Issues

Federal regulators are raising concerns about autonomous vehicles interfering with emergency first responders. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is calling for meetings with AV companies to address these critical issues, aiming to improve safety protocols by the end of the month. This initiative follows numerous incidents where AVs have posed challenges for emergency personnel at accident scenes.

July 10, 2026Road & TrackNHTSA

NHTSA Eyes Rule Change to Remove Steering Wheels from Purpose-Built Robotaxis

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is exploring a significant regulatory shift that could pave the way for fully autonomous vehicles without traditional driver controls. This move aims to streamline the deployment of robotaxis and other driverless vehicles by eliminating the requirement for steering wheels and pedals in cars designed exclusively for autonomous operation. Such a change would address a major hurdle for companies developing Level 4 and Level 5 self-driving technologies.

July 10, 2026InsideEVsNHTSA

NHTSA Warns Autonomous Vehicle Developers: Prepare for First Responders

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) under the Trump administration issued a stern warning to autonomous vehicle (AV) developers. The agency emphasized that self-driving cars must be able to safely interact with first responders or risk posing a significant danger to the public. This guidance highlights the critical need for AV technology to account for real-world emergency scenarios and effective communication with human personnel.

July 10, 2026NHTSA Press ReleasesNHTSA

NHTSA Warns Robotaxi Companies: Stop Impeding First Responders Or Face Action

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued a stern warning to autonomous vehicle companies, emphasizing that their robotaxis must not interfere with emergency service operations. This comes amid increasing reports of self-driving cars blocking fire trucks, ambulances, and police, leading to potentially critical delays. NHTSA stressed that public trust in this nascent technology is paramount and is earned by ensuring safety and cooperation, implying potential regulatory action if issues persist.

July 10, 2026InsideEVsNHTSA

Cadillac Recalls 14,000 Vistiq EVs Over Third-Row Seat Safety Hazard

Cadillac is issuing a recall for over 14,000 Vistiq electric SUVs due to a defect in the one-touch folding third-row seats. The issue could prevent the seats from returning to their upright position if they encounter resistance, posing a potential risk of trapping occupants. This safety concern impacts models from the 2026 model year.

July 7, 2026Road & TrackCadillac

Cadillac Issues Recall for 14,000 Vistiq EVs Due to Child Safety Hazard

Cadillac is recalling approximately 14,000 of its 2027 Vistiq EV crossovers, citing a defect that could potentially trap small children in the third-row seat. The issue, which General Motors identified last month, involves a mechanism that prevents the rearmost seats from folding back correctly while occupied, posing a significant safety risk. Although GM has halted Vistiq shipments, a permanent fix for the problem is not yet available.

July 6, 2026InsideEVsCadillac

U.S. Regulators Deny Polestar's Appeal to Sell Cars Built After 2026

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has denied Polestar's petition to continue selling vehicles in the U.S. that are manufactured after the 2026 model year. This decision stems from a long-standing ruling that prohibits Chinese-made vehicles from being directly imported and sold here, a rule the brand believes it should be exempt from due to its unique ties to Volvo.

June 26, 2026Ars Technica - CarsPolestar

NHTSA Opens Investigation Into Fatal Tesla Crash in Texas Home

Federal safety regulators are investigating a deadly Tesla crash in Katy, Texas, where a Model 3 veered off the road, plowed through a residence, and killed a 76-year-old woman. The incident, which occurred on June 20, is under scrutiny after the driver claimed the vehicle was operating on Autopilot at the time of impact. This marks another instance of NHTSA examining Tesla's advanced driver-assistance systems in a lethal collision.

June 22, 2026ElectrekTesla

Waymo Issues Software Recall for Thousands of Robotaxis After Repeated Construction Zone Incidents

Waymo is recalling 448 self-driving vehicles, including its entire operational fleet, to update software following issues where its robotaxis entered construction zones and collided with objects like fences. This action comes after 17 reported incidents across Phoenix and San Francisco between December 2023 and February 2024, prompting an NHTSA investigation.

June 22, 2026Road & TrackWaymo