US Investigates Tesla's 'Full Self-Driving' System After Fatal Pedestrian Incident in Low Visibility

US Investigates Tesla's 'Full Self-Driving' System Following Fatal Crash

DETROIT -- The U.S. government's road safety agency has launched an investigation into Tesla's "Full Self-Driving" system after receiving reports of crashes in low-visibility conditions, including a fatal incident involving a pedestrian.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) announced that the probe began after Tesla reported four separate crashes that occurred in low-visibility scenarios such as sun glare, fog, and airborne dust. Along with the pedestrian fatality, one crash resulted in injuries.

Investigators will assess whether the "Full Self-Driving" system can effectively detect and respond to reduced visibility conditions, and will analyze the factors contributing to these accidents.

This investigation affects approximately 2.4 million Tesla vehicles from model years 2016 to 2024. Tesla has previously stated that its system does not allow for fully autonomous driving and emphasized the necessity for human drivers to be prepared to intervene at any moment.

Recently, Tesla held an event to unveil a fully autonomous robotaxi concept designed without a steering wheel or pedals. CEO Elon Musk indicated aspirations for the launch of completely self-driving vehicles by next year and aims for the deployment of robotaxis by 2026.