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Reports indicate that the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk, implemented staff reductions at the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in February. The Financial Times suggests these cuts disproportionately affected those overseeing self-driving vehicle technology, raising potential conflict-of-interest concerns.
The Impact on Tesla Investigations
The NHTSA, responsible for vehicle safety and regulations, had recently ramped up investigations into Tesla’s autonomous driving features. These investigations include:
- A January probe into millions of Tesla vehicles related to remote and self-guided systems.
- An October 2024 inquiry into Tesla’s “Full Self-Driving” system.
- A 2022 investigation into crashes involving Tesla’s “autopilot” feature.
With key personnel gone, critics worry about the agency’s capacity to effectively oversee Tesla’s technology.
Conflict of Interest Allegations
Sources cited by the Financial Times claim the DOGE cuts significantly impacted the “office of vehicle automation safety” within the NHTSA. A former NHTSA official not affected by the layoffs expressed concern over a potential conflict of interest, suggesting that someone with a business stake is influencing the agency that regulates them.
Past Controversies
Musk’s DOGE has faced scrutiny for cuts at other agencies like the FAA and FCC, actions that some believe benefited his SpaceX venture. These latest developments at the NHTSA are likely to fuel further debate regarding regulatory oversight and potential conflicts of interest.
The NHTSA recently issued a recall for all 2024 and 2025 Tesla Cybertruck models due to potentially detached exterior panels that run along the left and right side of the windshield. And, earlier in January, around 240,000 vehicles had their rearview cameras investigated.
Political Fallout
Former Labor Secretary Robert Reich and Senator Chris Murphy have publicly criticized the DOGE cuts, highlighting potential conflicts of interest. Trump administration defended DOGE and stated confidence in its objectives.
The Road Ahead
The future of NHTSA’s oversight capabilities remains uncertain. The Trump administration is committed to the DOGE cuts of federal spending. Whether the agency can effectively regulate advanced vehicle technologies amid staff reductions is a question that will be closely watched.