Photo Credit: Getty Images
Tesla is once again under scrutiny from US regulators after reports surfaced that its self-driving vehicles committed multiple traffic violations — including running red lights and driving on the wrong side of the road.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) announced the investigation on Thursday, citing at least 58 reports of erratic or unlawful behavior linked to Tesla's "Full Self-Driving (Supervised)" mode. The probe will cover an estimated 2.9 million vehicles equipped with the advanced software.
In its preliminary filing, the agency said it would "assess the scope, frequency, and potential safety consequences" of the incidents, noting that several complaints involved cars entering opposing lanes during or after a turn, often with "little notice or opportunity to intervene."
According to the NHTSA, six crashes were reported involving Teslas that failed to stop at red lights before accelerating through intersections. Four of those incidents resulted in injuries. Officials added that Tesla had already taken steps to fix one recurring problem at a Maryland intersection where multiple violations had occurred.
The "Full Self-Driving" system allows cars to change lanes, make turns, and navigate traffic lights, but Tesla warns that drivers must remain attentive and ready to take control at any time. Despite that disclaimer, safety advocates have long criticized the system's branding, saying it misleads drivers into believing the cars are fully autonomous.
The latest probe follows a series of regulatory challenges for Tesla. Earlier this year, the company came under investigation over door-locking malfunctions in its Model Y vehicles after several reports of children becoming trapped inside. Some owners reportedly had to smash windows to free them.
The investigation also coincides with a pivotal moment for Tesla, which recently introduced lower-cost models of its popular cars in an effort to compete with budget-friendly Chinese electric vehicles.
CEO Elon Musk, who last week became the world's first half-trillionaire, has yet to comment on the NHTSA's announcement.
Tesla shares dipped slightly in early trading Thursday following news of the investigation.
