Introduction
The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has concluded its investigation into a braking issue affecting 258 Zoox vehicles. This decision follows a recall and software update initiated by the self-driving car unit of Amazon.
Context
The investigation was launched after two rear-end collisions resulted in injuries to motorcyclists, attributed to the automated vehicles braking unexpectedly. This prompted NHTSA to examine the safety of Zoox's technology.
Developments
In March, Zoox recalled the affected vehicles and implemented a software update designed to resolve the braking problem, which caused unexpected braking when bicycles or motorcycles were nearby or approaching quickly. After an analysis by NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation, which reviewed the data provided by Zoox, the agency confirmed that the issue had been effectively addressed.
Conclusion
With the completion of its investigation, the NHTSA has affirmed Zoox's efforts to enhance vehicle safety through the recent software updates, alleviating concerns surrounding the self-driving vehicles' braking behavior.
