Fact Check: Tesla robotaxis are veering into oncoming lanes and speeding nearly twice the limit.

Fact Check: "Tesla robotaxis are veering into oncoming lanes and speeding nearly twice the limit."

What We Know

Recent reports indicate that Tesla's Robotaxi service, which was launched in Austin, Texas, has encountered significant operational issues. Videos shared by users, including pro-Tesla influencers, show instances of the Robotaxis exceeding the speed limit and veering into oncoming traffic lanes. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is currently investigating these incidents, having confirmed that they are aware of the videos depicting these erratic driving behaviors (The Guardian).

Specifically, one video showed a Robotaxi misjudging a left turn and entering a lane designated for oncoming traffic before correcting itself (USA Today). Another instance documented a Robotaxi traveling at 39 mph in a 35 mph zone, indicating that the vehicles were indeed speeding (Yahoo Finance).

Analysis

The evidence supporting the claim that Tesla Robotaxis are veering into oncoming lanes and speeding is substantial. Multiple videos from the initial rollout demonstrate these behaviors, which have drawn scrutiny from safety regulators (The Guardian, USA Today). The fact that the NHTSA has initiated an investigation into these incidents underscores the seriousness of the claims and the potential safety implications of the Robotaxi program.

While the videos were shared by users who are generally supportive of Tesla, the nature of the incidents captured—such as swerving into oncoming traffic—raises concerns about the reliability of the autonomous driving technology being tested (Yahoo Finance, New York Post). The involvement of the NHTSA adds a layer of credibility to the claims, as the agency's investigations are typically based on substantial evidence of safety violations.

However, it is important to note that the videos were taken during a limited rollout and may not represent the overall performance of the Robotaxi fleet. Nonetheless, the specific incidents reported are alarming and warrant further investigation.

Conclusion

Verdict: True. The claim that Tesla Robotaxis are veering into oncoming lanes and speeding nearly twice the limit is supported by multiple video evidence and has led to an investigation by the NHTSA. The documented incidents of erratic driving behaviors raise significant safety concerns regarding the autonomous driving capabilities of Tesla's Robotaxi program.

Fact Check: Tesla robotaxis are veering into oncoming lanes and speeding nearly twice the limit.