NHTSA investigates Tesla Summon after 16 crashes raise safety concerns

In the United States, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has initiated a federal safety investigation concerning Tesla's Smart Summon technology. This investigation was prompted by reports of at least 16 crashes linked to the vehicle's remote operation capabilities. The features, known as Smart Summon and Actually Smart Summon, permit drivers to maneuver their cars remotely through a smartphone application. The investigation addresses potential shortcomings in the technology that may prevent vehicles from detecting obstacles in their path during operation. The NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation has noted that it is aware of multiple incidents where users reportedly experienced insufficient reaction time to avert collisions, raising questions about the effectiveness and reliability of the smart features. Compounding these concerns, Tesla has been found to have failed to report these incidents to the NHTSA, which is obligated by a standing general order stipulating that automakers must disclose accidents involving autonomous or partially automated systems that occur on public roads. As part of the preliminary investigation, NHTSA will evaluate the operational capabilities of the Smart Summon systems, assessing their speed limits and any design restrictions that may be contributing factors in these incidents. In its review, the ODI has received at least 12 additional complaints associated with the Smart Summon feature, highlighting that users have faced similar challenges in avoiding crashes with stationary objects, such as parked vehicles and bollards. With over 2.5 million Tesla vehicles equipped with these features, the implications of this probe could be significant. The investigation serves as a vital examination of the safety protocols and standards that are necessary for the deployment of rapidly advancing vehicle automation technologies. It indicates that as autonomous functionalities evolve, the regulatory frameworks need to adapt accordingly to safeguard users and the public from potential risks associated with such technology.