Trump Transition Team Recommends Ending Federal Tesla Crash Reporting Rule

The proposed move, benefiting Elon Musk's Tesla, could limit federal oversight of automated-driving safety data.

Donald Trump’s transition team has recommended eliminating a federal rule requiring automakers to report crashes involving advanced driver-assistance systems within 30 seconds of impact.
The rule, implemented during the Biden administration, has been crucial for the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in investigating safety issues and initiating recalls, including multiple probes into Tesla’s Autopilot system.
Tesla, which accounts for the majority of crash reports under the rule, has long opposed the requirement, arguing it unfairly highlights its vehicles due to more comprehensive data collection compared to competitors.
Critics warn that removing the reporting mandate would hinder the government’s ability to detect patterns in crashes and evaluate the safety of emerging autonomous technologies.
Elon Musk, a major donor to Trump’s campaign, has expressed support for loosening regulations and has been appointed to co-lead a new Department of Government Efficiency focused on reducing federal oversight and spending.