NHTSA orders Tesla to prove its Cybercab is legal to sell, under oath

The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has ordered Tesla to demonstrate that its new Cybercab is legal to sell, issuing a formal Special Order on September 10. The agency requires Tesla to prove, under oath, how the Cybercab complies with federal safety standards, particularly given its design, which lacks traditional vehicle components such as a steering wheel, pedals, and sideview mirrors. Tesla has until September 30 to respond to this order, with potential penalties of up to $139 million for failing to provide a full and truthful answer. The Cybercab, a two-seat autonomous vehicle designed for Tesla's robotaxi service, was officially launched on September 3, 2023. The launch event was invite-only for top scorers in Tesla's Robotaxi rider sweepstakes but was also livestreamed for public viewing. The vehicle has been operational in Austin for over a year, with approximately two dozen unsupervised vehicles already in service. Reports indicate that Tesla employees have been testing a fully driverless version of the Cybercab on private roads. The NHTSA's investigation focuses on whether the Cybercab meets the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS). An audit query (AQ) has been initiated to review the technical data and self-certification process that Tesla used for the vehicle. The investigation highlights significant concerns regarding the vehicle's adherence to safety regulations, which are crucial for ensuring the safety of passengers and other road users. As the situation develops, further details regarding the investigation and its findings are expected. This scrutiny reflects broader concerns about the implications of self-driving technology and the regulatory frameworks governing such innovations. Tesla's approach, which relies heavily on a camera-only system for autonomous driving, contrasts with competitors that utilize multiple sensors, marking a pivotal moment for the company as it navigates the challenges of innovation alongside safety compliance.