US opens investigation after Tesla Cybercab launch
Tesla has begun operating its new Cybercab robotaxi service in Austin, Texas, offering rides in vehicles with no steering wheel or pedals. Within hours of the launch, the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration started an investigation into whether these vehicles comply with federal safety regulations. Tesla reportedly self-certified the Cybercab. There are currently 45 vehicles in the Texas fleet, with plans for significant expansion.
- NHTSA audit focuses on compliance with safety regulations
- Investigation began hours after Tesla's Austin launch
- Cybercabs lack manual controls such as steering wheels
- Tesla aims to deploy millions of these vehicles
- Service currently limited to Texas and selected users
Sources covering this
How it unfolded
- Economic Times Tech Tesla starts Cybercab rides in Austin, prompting US safety agency evaluation
- New York Times Tesla’s Cybercab Is Being Investigated by Federal Regulators
- CNET Tesla’s Cybercab Opened Up to Riders — and the Feds Opened an Investigation
- Ars Technica Tesla’s Cybercab has been deployed, and it’s already under investigation
- Gizmodo First Responders May Have to Push Tesla’s Cybercabs, Turn Front Wheels by Hand
- TechCrunch TechCrunch Mobility: Tesla Cybercab hits the road — and a snag
- The Register US watchdog opens probe into Tesla's Cybercab self-certification
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