140 stories tagged safety on EV Digest.
Toyota is recalling approximately 228,000 Sienna hybrid minivans from the 2022 through 2026 model years due to an issue with second-row seat backs. In the event of a collision, the affected seats may fail to stay locked in an upright position, increasing the risk of passenger injury. Dealerships will inspect the latch mechanisms and apply a free fix depending on the specific seating configuration.
Tesla has rolled out new accident-avoidance capabilities as part of its Full Self-Driving (FSD) Beta software update. This advancement aims to improve safety by proactively detecting and reacting to potential collision scenarios. However, the update is currently limited to FSD Beta users, meaning a significant portion of Tesla's customer base will not immediately benefit from these new safety enhancements.
Recent crash reports submitted to federal regulators indicate that Tesla's 'Robotaxi' system continues to be involved in collisions, with five such incidents now on record. Notably, all these reported crashes occurred while a remote operator, rather than the autonomous system, was controlling the vehicle. This trend raises concerns about the safety protocols and the efficacy of remote intervention in Tesla's self-driving initiatives.
Toyota has issued a recall for approximately 30,978 RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid vehicles from the 2026 model year. The issue stems from an Engine Control Unit (ECU) software fault that could cause the electric motor to shut down while driving, potentially leading to a loss of power. Owners are advised to bring their vehicles to a dealership for a free software update to resolve this critical safety concern.
Modern electric vehicles rely heavily on Electronic Control Units (ECUs) to manage critical functions from braking to battery systems. Ensuring these ECUs operate safely and predictably, even under fault conditions, is paramount for EV manufacturers and test engineers. PXI-based fault insertion and sensor simulation systems are emerging as essential tools to rigorously test these vital components.
Rivian is issuing a voluntary recall for a small number of its recently unveiled R2 electric SUVs. The recall addresses an improperly torqued battery fastener, a crucial component for the vehicle's high-voltage system. Though affecting only 14 units, the proactive measure highlights the stringent safety standards for new EV platforms.
Tesla has introduced a new safety feature, 'Emergency Drive Away,' enabling vehicles to quickly disconnect from Superchargers and shift into drive during urgent situations. This allows drivers to immediately move their EV, even if the charging process hasn't completed or the connector hasn't been properly released.
Tesla has rolled out a new safety feature for its Supercharger network, allowing drivers to quickly detach a charging cable in emergency situations without exiting their vehicle. This enhancement aims to improve driver safety and convenience by enabling an immediate departure if a dangerous scenario arises at a charging station.
In response to recent safety concerns, Tesla has rolled out a new feature allowing drivers to quickly disengage their vehicle from a Supercharger mid-charge during emergencies. This update addresses the previous locking mechanism that prevented Teslas from being moved while charging, enhancing driver safety and peace of mind at charging stations.
Tesla is quietly rolling out a new dynamic headlight leveling feature to select vehicles, enhancing nighttime visibility and safety. This system automatically adjusts headlight aim based on various factors, ensuring optimal illumination of the road ahead.
Stellantis has filed a patent for a groundbreaking safety system designed to eject an electric vehicle's battery pack in the event of thermal runaway. This innovative approach uses pyrotechnic bolts to quickly detach the flaming battery, theoretically allowing the vehicle to continue to a safe stop without the fire spreading to the passenger compartment.
Renewance, a company specializing in the end-of-life management of EV and energy storage batteries, has adopted an innovative container solution to address the complexities of shipping damaged power units. This new approach from Obexion AG significantly cuts down on costs and handling time associated with transporting potentially hazardous batteries, which are typically restricted to one per container.
A recent fire involving a lithium-ion battery storage facility in Los Angeles has reignited public debate and safety concerns across California. This incident highlights the challenges of safely deploying large-scale battery storage solutions, particularly in densely populated areas, and prompts a closer look at current regulations and community preparedness.
Waymo, Alphabet's autonomous driving subsidiary, has released a new safety update highlighting the impact of its robotaxi service. The company asserts that its vehicles have avoided close to 1,000 injuries across over 270 million miles of fully autonomous driving, showcasing the safety benefits of its technology. This data, equating to more than 300 human lifetimes of driving, reinforces Waymo's argument for the superior safety of self-driving cars compared to human-driven vehicles.
Autonomous vehicle company Waymo has released new data highlighting the safety record of its self-driving cars, claiming an 82% reduction in injury-causing crashes compared to human-driven vehicles. After accumulating over 271 million driverless miles, these statistics suggest a substantial safety advantage for Waymo's technology, primarily across its operational cities in the U.S.
Google's autonomous vehicle subsidiary, Waymo, asserts its robotaxis have prevented more than 800 injuries in scenarios where human drivers would likely have caused harm. The company's internal safety analysis suggests its self-driving system is approximately 20 times safer than human drivers in avoiding serious accidents, contributing to growing confidence in autonomous technology's potential to improve road safety.
Rivian is issuing a voluntary recall for more than 100,000 R1T pickups and R1S SUVs due to a software issue affecting the rearview camera display. A specific sequence of events can cause an on-screen notification to partially obscure the camera feed, potentially reducing visibility while backing up.
Google's self-driving unit, Waymo, has released new safety data asserting that its robotaxi operations have prevented 841 injuries over 271 million miles driven autonomously. This new report also claims an 82% reduction in overall crashes compared to human-driven vehicles. The data offers an important look into the real-world safety performance of advanced autonomous driving systems, a crucial metric as the technology expands.
Autonomous vehicle company Waymo has released new data suggesting its self-driving cars continue to demonstrate a lower crash rate, particularly regarding injury-causing incidents, compared to human-driven vehicles. This self-reported safety data aims to bolster support for autonomous vehicle deployment amidst ongoing public and regulatory debates about their safety and real-world impact.
Rivian has issued a recall impacting nearly 99,000 of its R1T, R1S, and some pre-production R2 models. The issue stems from a potentially faulty rearview camera connection that could lead to a blank display, posing a safety risk for drivers.
A two-year-old boy in Texas was fatally injured after his father accidentally backed a Tesla Cybertruck into him while reversing. The tragic incident, which involved the vehicle and its operator, is currently under investigation by authorities.
As autonomous driving features become more sophisticated, safety experts are raising concerns that drivers may be developing an over-reliance on these systems. This potential overconfidence could lead to dangerous situations where human drivers are unprepared to intervene when the technology encounters unforeseen challenges.
Hyundai is recalling its Ioniq 9 electric vehicle due to a safety concern identified with its rear seats. The issue, which could potentially trap small children, has prompted five consumer complaints, with two incidents reportedly resulting in minor injuries. This recall underscores the ongoing importance of vehicle safety, even for new EV models.
Infineon has unveiled a new power management integrated circuit (PMIC), the OPTIREG TLE9744QK, specifically engineered for high-voltage traction inverters in electric and hybrid vehicles. This innovative chip consolidates essential components, including supply rails, resolver excitation circuitry, and a dedicated safety engine, into a single device. The integration aims to simplify inverter electronic control unit (ECU) designs, enhance functional safety, and reduce complexity in next-generation EV powertrains.
Hyundai is initiating a recall for its Ioniq 9 electric SUV due to a potential problem with the power-folding rear seats. This issue, which could prevent the seats from properly latching, reportedly affects both the Ioniq 9 and some of its internal combustion engine siblings.
New data from Australia and New Zealand suggests that Tesla's Full Self-Driving (FSD) 'Supervised' system may contribute to a notable reduction in collision rates. The report indicates a 40% decrease in accidents for vehicles utilizing the advanced driver-assistance system over its first full year in those markets. This early performance offers insights into the potential safety benefits of FSD 'Supervised' as its deployment expands globally.
In a spirited debate over autonomous vehicles, one reader shares their personal anticipation for self-driving technology, highlighting its potential to restore mobility for individuals with visual impairments. The letter also points to data suggesting that robotaxis, such as those operated by Waymo, exhibit significantly lower crash rates than human drivers, making a case for their safety and societal value.
A Waymo autonomous vehicle operating in Los Angeles detected minors carrying a "ghost gun" and promptly pulled over, initiating a call to local authorities. The incident highlights the potential for autonomous systems to contribute to public safety beyond their driving functions.
Innovative extrusion and co-extrusion manufacturing processes are proving critical for developing integrated components in EV charging stations. These methods efficiently produce complex, multi-functional profiles that improve thermal management, electrical conductivity, and sensing capabilities, addressing key safety and performance needs for charging infrastructure.
A new webinar aims to educate professionals on the critical standards and practical methods for commissioning and inspecting EV charging infrastructure. The session will address how to verify that charging stations are not only operational but also electrically safe and fully functional for public and private use. This is crucial for maintaining the reliability and safety of the rapidly expanding EV charging network.
Recent testing challenges common perceptions about vehicle fires, indicating that battery electric vehicles (BEVs) are less prone to igniting than their gasoline counterparts. While EV fires can be more intense and harder to extinguish, the data suggests they occur at a significantly lower rate. This new analysis provides crucial insights for both consumers and emergency responders.
Toyota has issued a recall for approximately 10,000 units of its C-HR EV, citing a software defect that could lead to a sudden loss of motive power while driving. Owners of the affected vehicles in the U.S. will need to visit a dealership for a critical software update to prevent this safety hazard. This marks a significant safety concern for one of the automaker's recently launched electric models.
As battery electric vehicles (BEVs) continue to evolve with higher charging speeds, increased energy storage, and bidirectional power capabilities, the demands on their high-voltage DC circuit protection systems are intensifying. Traditional fuse and contactor setups are proving less ideal for these advanced architectures, highlighting the need for innovative, resettable solutions. These new protection mechanisms are crucial for ensuring safety and reliability in future EV designs.
Mounting evidence suggests that autonomous vehicles (AVs) and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) are substantially reducing crashes, injuries, and fatalities on the road. Studies from institutions like IIHS and Waymo's real-world driving data indicate these technologies perform significantly safer than human drivers. As more vehicles adopt these features, their positive impact on overall road safety becomes increasingly clear.
Toyota has announced a recall affecting approximately 10,000 C-HR electric vehicles worldwide. The issue, which could lead to a loss of power while driving, necessitates a software update for affected models. This recall highlights the importance of ongoing software integrity and safety in the rapidly evolving EV market.
Tesla's upcoming Full Self-Driving (FSD) software update, version 14.3.9, will reportedly include a new 'Automatic Collision Evasion' feature. This advanced system is designed to provide emergency steering and braking assistance, even when the driver is actively controlling the vehicle, to help prevent potential accidents.
The Tesla Model Y has achieved the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's highest safety rating, the Top Safety Pick+ award, for recent builds. This top honor affirms the popular electric SUV's strong performance in crash protection and collision avoidance tests, though the 'plus' designation specifically applies to vehicles equipped with superior headlights.
Tesla has quietly rolled out a significant new active safety feature called 'Automatic Collision Evasion' to its vehicle fleet. This system utilizes the existing Full Self-Driving (FSD) hardware to provide an emergency crash prevention tool, even during manual driving. By continuously monitoring the environment, it can intervene to help drivers avoid potential collisions.
The refreshed 2026 Tesla Model Y has earned the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's (IIHS) highest accolade, the Top Safety Pick+, following rigorous testing. This distinguished rating underscores the Model Y's robust design and advanced safety features, reinforcing its appeal to safety-conscious consumers in the electric SUV market.
As the European Union considers stricter regulations for autonomous driving systems, Tesla has released safety data specifically from its Full Self-Driving (FSD) beta program operating in Europe. The company aims to demonstrate that its advanced driver-assistance system operates safely on European roads, potentially influencing upcoming legislative decisions regarding its deployment.
Tesla has confidentially settled a wrongful death lawsuit stemming from a 2023 incident where a Model S, operating on Autopilot, crashed into a parked fire truck, resulting in the driver's death and severe injuries to a passenger. This out-of-court resolution allows Tesla to avoid a jury trial that would have scrutinously examined the company's claims regarding its advanced driver-assistance system.
Zoox, Amazon's autonomous vehicle subsidiary, has detailed its rigorous safety case framework designed to ensure the secure operation of its purpose-built robotaxis. This framework integrates hardware, software, and operational protocols, aiming to set a high bar for self-driving vehicle safety. The company emphasizes a proactive, holistic approach to assessing and mitigating risks across its entire robotaxi system.
Recent Euro NCAP crash tests highlight the robust safety performance of several Chinese-made electric vehicles, with models like the Leapmotor C10 and Nio EL6 securing five-star ratings. This strong showing suggests Chinese EVs are rapidly closing any perceived safety gap, even surpassing some European models in rigorous assessments. The results are significant as more Chinese EV brands look to expand into global markets.
A recent Electrek investigation suggests that a fatal 2022 collision on Florida's I-4, where a Tesla Model 3 stopped in a live lane and was rear-ended by a semi-truck, occurred while the vehicle's driver-assist system was active. Tesla's internal data, which the company has reportedly sealed, is key to understanding why the car came to a halt on the highway. This incident adds to a series of crashes where Tesla's advanced driver-assistance systems are under scrutiny.
Despite widespread media attention on EV battery fires, the majority of fire-related warnings advising vehicles to be parked outdoors actually involve gasoline-powered cars, trucks, and SUVs. This discrepancy highlights a significant public perception challenge for electric vehicles, which are often unfairly characterized as fire hazards compared to their internal combustion counterparts. Data indicates that ICE vehicle fires are far more common, yet EVs tend to dominate headlines when incidents occur.
Kia is issuing a recall for over 21,000 of its all-electric EV9 SUVs in North America, addressing a critical safety concern. The front passenger airbag system may fail to properly detect a small adult or child, potentially leading to incorrect airbag deployment in a crash. This could increase the risk of injury to occupants.
Kia is recalling over 21,000 EV9 electric SUVs in the U.S. due to a potential issue with the front passenger airbag system. The defect could prevent the airbag from properly deactivating when a child or child seat is detected, failing to meet federal safety standards and posing a risk in the event of a collision.
In a split decision on Tesla's flush-mounted door handles, China has mandated a recall affecting millions of vehicles due to safety concerns. Meanwhile, European regulators have concluded that the design is safe after thorough testing, opting for continuous monitoring rather than a recall.
A concerning trend has emerged on social media platforms, with Tesla owners posting videos of themselves engaging in dangerous and illegal activities while their vehicles operate on Full Self-Driving (FSD). These clips often depict drivers sleeping, gaming, or working, exploiting the advanced driver-assistance system in ways that disregard safety regulations and common sense. This growing collection of content highlights a disturbing culture of irresponsibility and raises serious questions about public safety and the appropriate use of vehicle autonomy.
Chinese regulators have mandated a significant recall impacting Tesla and other electric vehicles due to software issues affecting safety. This action highlights China's growing assertiveness in automotive safety oversight and its commitment to holding manufacturers accountable for vehicles sold within its borders.
The upcoming Volvo EX60 electric SUV is set to receive an innovative over-the-air update that will equip it with advanced predictive sensing capabilities. This new AI-driven system utilizes external data to detect potential hazards, including pedestrians and wildlife, even before they come into the driver's direct line of sight around bends.
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.
Videos circulating on social media show Tesla vehicles operating with FSD (Full Self-Driving) Lite failing to recognize significant debris on the road, including downed trees and logs. These incidents highlight persistent challenges for autonomous driving systems in accurately perceiving and reacting to unexpected environmental hazards, sparking renewed debate over the technology's readiness for widespread deployment.
Chinese regulators have issued a recall for approximately three million Tesla vehicles due to concerns over their flush, pop-out door handles, citing potential safety issues. This move comes as the country prepares to ban such handle designs on new cars starting in 2027, prompting Tesla to implement a software update as a remedy.
A video circulating online shows a Tesla vehicle operating on Full Self-Driving (FSD) v14.1 Lite driving directly over a large log in the road, without the system detecting the obstruction or initiating a braking maneuver. This incident adds to ongoing questions about the 'Lite' version of Tesla's autonomous driving software, especially when running on older Hardware 3 cars.
Effective insulation is critical for the long-term reliability and safety of electric vehicles, particularly as manufacturers push the boundaries of performance and design. This involves moving beyond basic data sheet comparisons to thoroughly evaluate materials and systems under real-world operating conditions, ensuring they can withstand the rigorous demands of EV applications.
A significant number of electric vehicles are included in recent safety recalls advising owners to park their cars outdoors due to fire risk. These widespread advisories, affecting over three million vehicles, highlight concerns that always-on electronic systems may contribute to thermal events, even when parked.
Tesla has announced a major recall in China, impacting almost three million imported and locally manufactured vehicles. The recall addresses an issue with the door handles across its entire product lineup sold in the region.
Chinese authorities are ordering a massive recall impacting millions of electric vehicles, citing safety concerns over mechanical door handles that are difficult to locate and operate in an emergency. This move highlights a growing focus on robust safety standards for EV design, ensuring drivers and passengers can quickly exit vehicles during critical situations.
Chinese regulators have mandated a recall of nearly three million Tesla vehicles due to a safety defect that could prevent doors from opening in a crash. This action by China's automotive safety watchdog impacts various Model 3, Model Y, and Model S vehicles manufactured in the country and imported for sale there.
Tesla is recalling approximately three million electric vehicles in China due to a software flaw that could prevent door latches from functioning correctly during a crash. This over-the-air update addresses a safety concern with the door locking mechanism, impacting a significant portion of the automaker's fleet in the region.
Tesla is implementing a significant recall across nearly 3 million vehicles in China, affecting Model 3, Model Y, Model X, and Model S units. The recall, prompted by Chinese regulators, addresses safety risks associated with the cars' door handles, specifically concerns around hidden handle designs.
Tesla is recalling almost three million electric vehicles in China due to safety concerns regarding the emergency door release mechanism. Regulators determined the system is difficult to locate and operate during a crash, leading to the automaker's largest-ever recall in the country. This action highlights ongoing scrutiny of Tesla's door designs across multiple markets.
As electric vehicle adoption surges, the focus on battery safety is paramount. Mactac has introduced CleanTape® FR, a new line of non-halogenated flame-retardant adhesive tapes designed to help manufacturers boost EV battery pack safety. These tapes also aim to address critical engineering and assembly challenges within the rapidly evolving EV industry.
Rivian is issuing a new recall for over 30,000 R1T and R1S electric vehicles, expanding on a previous safety campaign related to faulty turn signal indicators. The issue, which can prevent the signals from flashing correctly, impacts both the company's electric pickup and SUV models.
Tesla's integration of gamified elements into its Full Self-Driving (FSD) software is drawing sharp criticism from safety advocates and experts. The controversy intensified after a user showcased completing 25,000 miles without a FSD disengagement, raising questions about whether encouraging such 'streaks' promotes risky driving behavior.
Tesla has announced a recall affecting over 20,000 Model 3 and Model Y vehicles due to headlights that may be too bright, exceeding U.S. federal safety standards. This issue primarily concerns the low-beam lights, which could reduce visibility for oncoming drivers, potentially increasing accident risk. Owners of affected vehicles will be notified to address the concern.
Waymo's co-CEO Dmitri Dolgov recently shared insights on the challenges of vision-only autonomous driving systems. Dolgov suggests that the safety performance curve for such systems tends to level off prematurely, indicating limitations in their ability to achieve peak reliability. This perspective underscores a key debate within the self-driving industry regarding sensor suites.
As electric vehicle charging infrastructure, including onboard chargers and bidirectional vehicle-to-grid (V2G) systems, moves into wider adoption, ensuring their safe interaction with the AC grid becomes paramount. This involves rigorous testing for 'anti-islanding' capabilities, which prevent chargers from continuing to energize the grid during a power outage, protecting utility workers and equipment. Understanding these testing protocols is crucial for manufacturers, utilities, and regulators to guarantee reliable and secure EV-grid integration.
Advanced dash cameras are playing an increasingly vital role in enhancing the safety and development of autonomous vehicle technology. By capturing real-world driving data and incidents, these systems provide valuable insights that help refine self-driving algorithms and improve overall road intelligence for ADAS and AV systems. This data collection is crucial for training and validating the complex AI required for autonomous operation, ultimately contributing to safer roads for everyone.
New York City lawmakers are on the verge of implementing a significant overhaul of electric bike and micromobility regulations, with a package of 17 proposed bills. This legislative effort aims to enhance oversight and address safety concerns surrounding the increasing use of e-bikes and other personal mobility devices across the city.
Ford has issued a recall for approximately 86,000 Mustang Mach-E vehicles due to an issue where the rear side quarter window trim could detach. The problem stems from an improper curing process during assembly, potentially leading to the trim detaching and creating a road hazard.
The tragic shooting in Twin Falls, Idaho, which injured a Tesla owner while charging his vehicle, underscores the need for increased awareness and safety measures at public EV charging locations. As electric vehicle adoption grows, ensuring the security of charging infrastructure becomes crucial for driver peace of mind.
A recent shooting incident at a Tesla Supercharger in Twin Falls, Idaho, has sparked discussions among EV owners about personal safety while charging. Many users are debating the effectiveness of aftermarket devices like the 'EVject,' which allows for an emergency disconnect if a driver needs to flee while still plugged in. This event highlights the need for vehicle manufacturers to consider safety features that address such unforeseen scenarios.
Modern automotive headlights have undergone significant technological advancements, offering drivers improved visibility. However, this progress comes at a cost, as the increasing brightness and whiteness of these lights often create a blinding glare for oncoming traffic, raising safety concerns.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has launched an investigation into approximately 1.2 million Tesla vehicles across several models, citing concerns over potential suspension component failures. This probe aims to determine if a defect exists that could compromise steering control, raising significant safety questions for owners.
Federal safety regulators are launching a preliminary investigation into nearly 1.2 million Tesla Model 3 and Model Y vehicles following numerous complaints of suspension component failures. This probe aims to determine if a defect exists that could lead to a sudden loss of directional control, posing a significant safety risk.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has launched an investigation into approximately 1.2 million Tesla Model 3 and Model Y vehicles across various model years. This probe follows numerous complaints regarding potential front upper control arm separation, which could lead to suspension failure and pose a safety risk.
A woman is suing Tesla for $10 million, claiming severe injuries from a Model Y test drive gone wrong. She alleges that dealership employees put the vehicle into its high-performance 'Insane Mode' before a crash occurred. This incident highlights potential risks associated with powerful EV performance settings during unsupervised customer experiences.
Despite some confusion, there have been no safety recalls or notices issued for the 2026 Kia Niro EV. Kelley Blue Book has clarified that as of now, this model year is too far in the future for any official recalls to be in effect. Consumers can rest assured that any potential future notices will be communicated directly by Kia and relevant safety authorities.
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.
Mercedes-Benz is initiating a recall for over 300,000 vehicles, including some of its EQ electric models, in the U.S. due to a defective door latch sensor. This issue could prevent the car from recognizing an open door, potentially allowing the vehicle to roll away unintentionally under certain conditions, posing a safety risk.
New data from Tesla's Full Self-Driving (Supervised) beta rollout in Europe suggests the advanced driver-assistance system operates with a significantly lower accident rate compared to human drivers. This information provides an early look at FSD's real-world safety performance as it expands into international markets.
A former Tesla manager responsible for the company's 'Full Self-Driving' test fleet in Houston has filed a wrongful-termination lawsuit, claiming the operation was severely understaffed. According to the lawsuit, these conditions led to test vehicles becoming 'rolling hazards on public streets.' This revelation comes as Tesla prepares to launch its robotaxi service, raising concerns about the safety protocols during its development.
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.
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.
Magna has developed a new interior mirror equipped with a camera system designed to monitor driver behavior. This technology, called Occupant Status Monitoring (OSM), aims to enhance safety by detecting signs of distraction, fatigue, or drowsiness, actively observing the driver's alertness and attention.
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.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is investigating new regulatory measures concerning vehicle door handles. This comes in response to multiple crash incidents where emergency responders faced difficulties opening doors, raising concerns about occupant safety and timely extrication.
Across the United States, school districts are increasingly facing a dilemma: how to balance the independence e-bikes offer students for daily commutes against growing safety concerns. The surge in e-bike popularity amongst youth has led to a rise in accidents and reckless riding, forcing administrators to consider restrictions even as these electric vehicles provide valuable transportation options.
A new report from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) indicates that Waymo's autonomous electric vehicles have a substantially lower crash rate—68% fewer—compared to human-driven cars. The study also found that when crashes do occur, they are generally less severe. However, the IIHS highlights several crucial caveats that impact the comprehensiveness and generalizability of these findings, particularly in how crashes involving Waymo vehicles are reported and analyzed.
Federal regulators have launched an investigation into power loss experienced by certain Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6 EV models, leading to a recall. The issue, stemming from a charging unit defect, affects approximately 100,000 vehicles, with some owners reporting a sudden loss of motive power while driving.
A new study from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) indicates that Waymo's autonomous vehicles demonstrate a significantly lower crash rate per mile traveled when compared to incidents involving human-driven cars. This research suggests a potential safety advantage for driverless technology as it continues to develop and integrate into public transportation.
Tesla announced a 5% drop in net income for the second quarter, totaling $1.1 billion, as the company navigates a more measured approach to its highly anticipated robotaxi deployment. CEO Elon Musk emphasized safety as the primary factor influencing the pace of their autonomous vehicle expansion. The cautious rollout signals Tesla's strategic prioritization of robust, safety-validated technology over rapid deployment in the competitive autonomous driving landscape.
French authorities have officially rejected Tesla's Full Self-Driving (FSD) system in its current state, stating it does not meet the necessary safety standards for use on public roads. This decision highlights ongoing regulatory scrutiny of advanced driver-assistance systems in Europe and internationally. Tesla will need to implement changes to gain approval in France.
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.
Hyundai is recalling approximately 47,000 Kona and Kona Electric SUVs from the 2021-2023 model years due to a faulty seatbelt assembly for the rear center seat. The issue could prevent proper restraint in a crash, posing a safety risk. Owners are advised to avoid using this particular seat until remedies are implemented.
Rivian is cautioning future R2 owners against using older charging adapters due to potential overheating and melting. The R2's 400-volt architecture, while cost-effective, demands high amperage during charging that some legacy adapters may not be able to handle safely, posing a risk to equipment.
Hyundai is recalling over 47,000 Kona Electric SUVs from the 2021-2023 model years in North America. The issue concerns the rear seat belt buckles, which may become unlatched during a collision.
Amazon's Zoox has issued a voluntary recall for its driverless robotaxis after one of its vehicles collided with a fire truck responding to an emergency. The incident, which occurred in February, prompted new software updates designed to improve the robotaxis' ability to detect first responder vehicles and safely navigate emergency scenes.
