The US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has opened an investigation into comma.ai following crashes involving its aftermarket driver-assistance devices, according to Ars Technica. The outlet reported the probe follows multiple deaths and injuries.
Key facts
- NHTSA has opened a federal investigation into comma.ai, according to Ars Technica.
- The probe follows multiple deaths and injuries, per Ars Technica.
- Federal officials are aware of five crashes in which cars using comma.ai devices hit slow or stopped vehicles.
- comma.ai makes aftermarket driver-assistance technology.
The US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has opened an investigation into comma.ai, a maker of aftermarket driver-assistance devices, following crashes that Ars Technica reported resulted in multiple deaths and injuries.
Federal officials are aware of five crashes in which vehicles using comma.ai devices struck slow-moving or stopped vehicles, according to Ars Technica.
comma.ai’s products are aftermarket systems, meaning they are added to vehicles rather than installed by the original automaker, distinguishing them from factory-fitted driver-assistance systems.
The full scope of the investigation, including its findings and any potential action, has not yet been reported. Further details would depend on the outcome of the NHTSA probe.
Why it matters
Federal scrutiny of aftermarket driver-assistance systems raises questions about how these add-on technologies are regulated and how safely they operate on public roads. The outcome could influence the availability and oversight of such devices.
Frequently asked questions
Who is being investigated?
comma.ai, a maker of aftermarket driver-assistance devices, is being investigated by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Why did NHTSA open the investigation?
The investigation follows multiple deaths and injuries, with federal officials aware of five crashes where cars using comma.ai devices hit slow or stopped vehicles, according to Ars Technica.
What type of technology does comma.ai make?
comma.ai produces aftermarket driver-assistance devices, which are added to vehicles rather than installed by the original automaker.