Question 1

Why is NHTSA investigating Tesla Cybercab?

Accepted Answer

NHTSA is examining the process and technical data Tesla used to self-certify that the Cybercab, which lacks a steering wheel, foot pedals, and mirrors, complies with applicable FMVSS.

Question 2

What is NHTSA AQ26002?

Accepted Answer

AQ26002 is an Audit Query NHTSA opened on September 3, 2026, with an estimated investigation population of about 1,000 vehicles. It is an information-gathering step, not a defect or non-compliance finding.

Question 3

Did Tesla obtain a Part 555 exemption for Cybercab?

Accepted Answer

No. Tesla relied on the federal self-certification framework under 49 U.S.C. § 30115 rather than applying for a Part 555 temporary exemption.

Question 4

How is Tesla's approach different from Zoox's?

Accepted Answer

Tesla self-certified compliance without prior NHTSA approval. Zoox obtained a temporary Part 555 exemption, effective July 31, 2026 through July 31, 2028, covering specified portions of eight FMVSS, before commercial deployment.

Question 5

What does the September 10 Special Order require?

Accepted Answer

It requires Tesla to provide sworn responses to 21 requests concerning the technical and procedural basis for Cybercab's certification, due by September 30, 2026.

Question 6

Has NHTSA found Cybercab non-compliant?

Accepted Answer

No. As of September 21, 2026, NHTSA has not announced a final finding that Cybercab fails to comply with applicable FMVSS.

Question 7

What is Zoox's 2,500-vehicle limit?

Accepted Answer

Zoox's Part 555 exemption permits up to 2,500 exempted vehicles to be introduced into interstate commerce in any 12-month period; this limit applies to Zoox's specific grant and is not a universal Part 555 ceiling.

AQ26002

Tesla Cybercab NHTSA Investigation: What AQ26002 Means for Driverless Cars

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