Fact Check: Tesla robotaxis are caught speeding nearly twice the posted limit.

Fact Check: Tesla Robotaxis Are Caught Speeding Nearly Twice the Posted Limit

What We Know

Recent reports indicate that Tesla's robotaxis have been observed violating traffic laws, including speeding. The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has contacted Tesla regarding these incidents after videos surfaced showing the vehicles exceeding speed limits in South Austin, Texas. For instance, one video showed a Tesla robotaxi reaching 35 miles per hour in a zone where the speed limit was 30 miles per hour, which suggests that the claim about them speeding is substantiated (TechCrunch, Bloomberg).

The NHTSA's involvement highlights the seriousness of these violations, as they are responsible for ensuring vehicle safety standards. They have stated that they are gathering additional information about the incidents and will take necessary actions to protect road safety (Reuters).

Analysis

The claim that Tesla robotaxis are caught speeding nearly twice the posted limit is partially true. While there are documented instances of these vehicles exceeding the speed limit, the specifics of "twice the posted limit" are not fully substantiated by the available evidence. The videos referenced primarily show speeds that are slightly above the limit, not necessarily double the speed.

Furthermore, the reliability of the sources reporting these incidents varies. TechCrunch and Bloomberg are reputable news outlets that have provided detailed accounts of the situation, including direct quotes from the NHTSA (TechCrunch, Bloomberg). However, the Tesla Forum, while a community resource, may not provide the same level of journalistic scrutiny and could contain anecdotal evidence rather than verified reports (Tesla Forum).

The context of the incidents is also important. The robotaxis are part of a limited rollout and are equipped with a human safety monitor, which suggests that Tesla is taking steps to mitigate risks associated with their autonomous technology (TechCrunch). This indicates that while there are issues with compliance, the company is actively working to address them.

Conclusion

The verdict on the claim that "Tesla robotaxis are caught speeding nearly twice the posted limit" is Partially True. While there is evidence of Tesla robotaxis exceeding speed limits, the assertion that they are caught speeding nearly twice the limit lacks specific corroboration. The incidents reported involve speeds that are above the limit but do not consistently reach double the posted speed. The involvement of federal regulators indicates a serious concern, but the overall context suggests that Tesla is still in the testing phase of its autonomous vehicle technology.

Fact Check: Tesla robotaxis are caught speeding nearly twice the posted limit.