NHTSA Opens Probe Into 1,000 Tesla Cybercabs With No Steering Wheel or Pedals

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has launched an investigation into Tesla's certification of approximately 1,000 Cybercab vehicles, which began commercial service in Austin, Texas on September 3. These electric taxi prototypes lack traditional driver controls such as a steering wheel, accelerator pedal, brake pedal, and mirrors.

Tesla had previously self-certified the vehicles as complying with all relevant Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards, without the need for NHTSA approval. The federal regulator is now examining Tesla's technical data and certification process, specifically focusing on whether the company deemed certain safety standards unnecessary for a vehicle without conventional driver controls.

NHTSA Administrator Jonathan Morrison emphasized the agency's commitment to ensuring compliance with all applicable laws as they oversee the development and deployment of automated vehicles. The Cybercab represents a unique challenge for the autonomous vehicle industry, as existing safety regulations were primarily designed for vehicles operated by human drivers.

Currently, automakers generally handle their own vehicle certifications instead of waiting for NHTSA approval before selling or deploying them. Tesla has not applied for an exemption like its rival Zoox, which received one from NHTSA in July to permit limited commercial deployment of its steering-wheel-free robotaxis. If NHTSA determines that Tesla's certification was valid, the investigation could end with no further action.

However, should the agency find the Cybercab to be non-compliant with safety standards, Tesla might face regulatory requirements, potentially including a recall. Ultimately, the outcome of this investigation could set a precedent for how other autonomous vehicle manufacturers navigate the regulatory landscape, particularly in the case of radically different vehicle designs that challenge traditional safety rules.