The Trump transition team has floated the idea of scrapping a crash-reporting rule opposed by Tesla, an action that could dramatically shape vehicle safety regulation.
Established by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in 2021, the rule compels automakers to file reports of crashes involving advanced driver-assistance systems. Under the rule, Tesla has filed more than 1,500 reports. The company believes the rule unfairly targets their vehicles and misrepresents their safety record.
Reuters reported that since Musk was an advocate for Trump, who is now serving a government advisory role that's efficiency-oriented and whether it is a coincidence or otherwise, Tesla will gain something from the repeal.
Critics, including NHTSA, argue that the collection of crash-reporting data helps reveal patterns in public safety, and also other experts, note that all the requirements have led to enormous investigations, recalls, and fines against companies. For them, this rule should not be left out since it calls for accountability for risks due to safety issues.
Importance of Crash Data in Regulation
NHTSA further emphasizes that data on crashes is crucial for the understanding of emerging automated driving technologies.
For instance, information gathered from Tesla crashes influenced a number of investigations and recalls. Some of these have included the recalls involving its Autopilot features. According to the agency, such data would make it easy to identify safety risks, especially when automotive companies and even car owners themselves find it challenging to issue recalls.
Experts say that because Tesla is using driver-assistance systems so frequently, there is a good chance that incidents will be reported more compared to other automakers.
However, Elon Musk and Tesla have condemned the rule as unfair and overly burdensome. The company believes that detailed crash data creates an unfair perception that its vehicles are less safe than those of its competitors, per Vanity Fair. Tesla executives reportedly hoped for a change in administration to push through regulatory reforms. Musk also called for federal approval processes for autonomous vehicles to streamline the regulations and avoid inconsistencies across the states.
Join the Conversation