US opens probe into Tesla self-certification of Cybercab robotaxis

The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has initiated an investigation into Tesla's self-certification of its autonomous Cybercab robotaxi. The regulator is scrutinizing the process and technical data Tesla used to prove compliance with federal motor vehicle safety standards for up to 1,000 Cybercabs. Tesla began commercial deployment of a few Cybercabs in Austin, Texas, in June, with plans to expand to more vehicles and locations.

The Cybercab lacks conventional manual controls such as a steering wheel, brake pedal, accelerator pedal, and mirrors. While automakers must certify vehicles meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards, the NHTSA opened the probe as the Cybercab appears to not adhere to these requirements. The agency supports the safe development and deployment of autonomous vehicles but needs to ensure all laws are followed. Tesla did not immediately comment on the investigation.