Tesla is under scrutiny again as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) launches another investigation into its Full Self-Driving (FSD) software. This follow-up comes after reports of four crashes, including a fatal one, occurring under low-visibility conditions. The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) has pinpointed these incidents where Tesla vehicles, using FSD-Beta or FSD-Supervised, encountered crashes due to reduced roadway visibility caused by factors like sun glare, fog, or dust.

Among these cases, one tragic incident involved a pedestrian fatality, and another resulted in injury. The identified reports are detailed by their respective Standing General Order (SGO) numbers as shared by NHTSA in their investigation summary. As a recent setback for Tesla's FSD advancements, more than 2.4 million of Tesla's cars, models S, 3, X, Y, and the Cybertruck, are currently navigating U.S. roads where FSD capabilities are central to the probe.

The investigation focuses on several key elements: how well FSD's engineering can detect and respond to visibility challenges, whether other similar incidents have occurred, and any updates Tesla might make to improve FSD performance in these scenarios. The review aims to evaluate Tesla's timing, purpose, and capabilities of any tweaks, along with their safety implications. Jeff Schuster, vice president at GlobalData, highlighted that weather's impact on camera visibility is a critical concern and could hinder the near-term deployment of these technologies.

Tesla's website reiterates that visibility is vital for FSD operation, and poor conditions can markedly impair its functionality. The company underscores that FSD-Supervised is a hands-on feature, urging drivers to maintain steering control, remain aware of surroundings, and be ready to intervene promptly to prevent accidents or injuries. Tesla has faced several NHTSA investigations this year related to FSD, raising the likelihood of an impending software update to address regulatory concerns.

Recently, Tesla overcame a lawsuit accusing its top executives of misleading investors with FSD capability claims, suggesting that legal challenges continue alongside regulatory ones.