Tesla is recalling more than 362,000 U.S. vehicles to update its Full Self-Driving (FSD) Beta software following a decision from US regulators that the driver assistance system did not comply with traffic safety regulations and could cause crashes.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) stated that the Tesla software permits a vehicle to “exceed speed limits or travel through intersections in an unlawful or unpredictable manner increases the risk of a crash.”
Tesla stated that it disagreed with NHTSA’s assessment, but finally complied with the agency’s January request. The electric vehicle company has already argued with the NHTSA, which has multiple Tesla investigations open, over various safety concerns and recall requests.
Tesla, whose shares closed at $202.04 down 5.7%, will provide a free over-the-air (OTA) software upgrade. The EV manufacturer stated that it is unaware of any injuries or fatalities associated with the recall problem. The manufacturer reported 18 warranty claims.
The recall affects Model S and Model X vehicles from 2016 to 2023, Model 3 vehicles from 2017 to 2023, and Model Y vehicles from 2020 to 2023 equipped with FSD Beta software or pending installation.
This is a new disadvantage for Tesla’s driver assistance technology. Elon Musk has frequently missed his own self-imposed deadlines for achieving self-driving capability, which he has promoted as a potential cash cow.