According to a report by ReutersPresident-elect Donald Trump's transition team is seeking to overturn a rule set by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) that requires automakers to report crashes if advanced driver-assist technology was used. or automated driving systems within 30 seconds of the accident. The NHTSA issued the Permanent General Order in 2021, stating that its goal is to collect data that could help it identify potential security issues.
The data has been used in accident investigations involving six companies so far, including Tesla and GM's Cruise (which is shutting down its robotaxi program starting this week). Tesla “dismisses” the reporting requirement and believes the data could be misleading to consumers. Reuters reports, citing sources close to Tesla executives. In a document seen by ReutersThe transition team in charge of crafting a 100-day strategy for auto policy recommended that the incoming administration repeal the requirement, saying it requires “excessive” data collection.
It is unknown if Elon Musk, who donated more than 250 million dollars to help Trump get elected and was chosen to head the new “Department of Government Efficiency” alongside Vivek Ramaswamy, had a hand in the recommendation. Tesla has reported more than 1,500 accidents and accounted for 40 of the 45 fatal accidents reported to NHTSA. Reuters information. But according to University of South Carolina law professor Bryant Walker Smith, who spoke with ReutersTesla has more cars on the road with advanced driver-assist technology and collects more real-time crash data than other companies, which could lead to a disproportionate number of reported incidents.
