Tesla’s Robotaxi Launch Draws Federal Scrutiny Over Reported Glitches

Tesla’s highly publicized Robotaxi launch has immediately drawn federal scrutiny, with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) requesting information from the company. The US’s main transportation safety regulator is responding to videos that surfaced showing the autonomous vehicles exhibiting glitches, including instances of speeding and veering into the wrong lane during their Austin, Texas, debut. This swift regulatory action signals a serious examination of the technology’s safety.
Tesla had heavily promoted the initial, limited rollout, enlisting pro-Tesla influencers to showcase the paid ride service. However, the very footage intended for positive publicity now appears to be a crucial element in the NHTSA’s scrutiny, as the videos reveal the Robotaxis struggling to comply with fundamental traffic laws. The agency’s direct contact with the manufacturer emphasizes the urgency of its inquiry.
A particularly concerning video, shared by a Tesla investor, depicted a Robotaxi misjudging a left turn, briefly entering an oncoming traffic lane, and then correcting its course over a double yellow line. Another clip featured a pro-Tesla YouTuber commending the car for traveling “several miles per hour over the speed limit,” further highlighting deviations from safe driving practices.
This new regulatory challenge comes at a critical time for Tesla, as the company faces declining sales and a significant 71% drop in first-quarter profits for 2025. With Elon Musk having staked a substantial part of Tesla’s future on the success of its Robotaxi program, the NHTSA’s investigation, combined with an ongoing probe into “Full-Self Driving,” places considerable pressure on the automaker to validate its autonomous technology and address public safety concerns.