US Investigates Tesla's Robotaxi Launch Amid Safety Concerns

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has launched an investigation into Tesla's recent rollout of its Robotaxi service in Austin, Texas, following reports and videos showcasing erratic driving behavior, including instances of the autonomous vehicles exceeding speed limits and veering into incorrect lanes. The rollout, which occurred over the weekend, was heavily promoted by Tesla and included endorsements from pro-Tesla influencers demonstrating the ride service. However, instead of generating positive publicity, these videos raised alarms at the NHTSA regarding the vehicles' ability to adhere to traffic regulations.

According to a statement from the NHTSA, the agency is "aware of the referenced incidents and is in contact with the manufacturer to gather additional information." This investigation comes on the heels of Tesla's ambitious plans to establish a fleet of self-driving Robotaxis, a key component of CEO Elon Musk's vision for the future of transportation.

The initial deployment featured approximately ten Robotaxis, each equipped with a "safety driver" in the front passenger seat, operating within a limited area of Austin. Despite Musk's assertions that the launch marked a significant milestone in automotive safety, videos surfaced showing the vehicles navigating incorrectly. One video, shared by a Tesla investor, depicted a Robotaxi wobbling and misjudging a left turn, subsequently entering a lane designated for oncoming traffic before correcting itself. Another clip highlighted a pro-Tesla YouTuber praising the vehicle for exceeding the speed limit.

Musk has staked much of Tesla's future on the success of the Robotaxi program, having previously predicted that millions of fully autonomous Teslas would be operational by mid-2026. However, this prediction mirrors earlier assertions made in 2019, raising skepticism among industry watchers and investors alike.

The NHTSA has clarified that it does not pre-approve new technologies or driving systems. Instead, manufacturers are responsible for certifying that their vehicles meet safety standards, after which the NHTSA investigates potential safety defects. The agency emphasized its commitment to enforce regulations across all motor vehicle manufacturers in accordance with the Vehicle Safety Act.

Tesla's Robotaxi initiative has become increasingly critical amid a backdrop of declining sales and a reported 71% drop in year-on-year profits for the first quarter of 2025. This downturn has been compounded by growing backlash against Musk's political stances. The NHTSA's investigation into the Robotaxi rollout adds to its ongoing scrutiny of Tesla's "Full-Self Driving" mode, which has been under investigation since 2024 following a fatal incident involving a pedestrian.

Experts in automotive technology and regulatory compliance have expressed concerns regarding the feasibility of Tesla's ambitious timelines for full autonomy. Dr. Emily Carter, a professor of Transportation Engineering at Stanford University, noted, "The deployment of autonomous vehicles must be approached with caution. Safety should be the utmost priority, as evidenced by previous incidents with Tesla's self-driving features."

Furthermore, industry analysts point out that the current backlash against Musk's leadership, combined with regulatory scrutiny, could impact Tesla's roadmap for autonomous vehicle technologies. John Smith, CEO of Autonomous Tech Solutions, remarked, "Tesla's innovation is commendable, but it must be matched with rigorous safety standards and transparency to gain public trust."

As Tesla navigates this critical period, the outcome of the NHTSA's investigation may significantly influence the company's trajectory in the autonomous vehicle market. With public and regulatory scrutiny intensifying, the implications of the findings could extend beyond Tesla, shaping the future of self-driving technology across the industry. The stakes are high as the automotive landscape evolves and the demand for safe, efficient transportation solutions continues to grow.