TechCrunch Industry News Musk says new Tesla software allows texting and driving, which is illegal in most states; plus, Feds ask Waymo about robotaxis repeatedly passing school buses in Austin
Dec 5, 2025
Elon Musk claims Tesla's latest software could allow for texting while driving, sparking safety concerns. However, the system still requires driver attention and isn't fully autonomous. Meanwhile, the NHTSA is investigating Waymo after reports of robotaxis repeatedly passing stopped school buses in Austin. Despite Waymo's assurances of improvements, the Austin School District is demanding operational limits during school hours to ensure safety.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
FSD Still Requires Driver Responsibility
- Elon Musk said Tesla's FSD update allows drivers to text depending on traffic context, claiming reduced warnings for phone use.
- FSD remains driver-assist, not full autonomy, and drivers are still legally and physically liable to intervene when needed.
Driver Monitoring Doesn’t Eliminate Handover Risk
- Tesla monitors driver attentiveness via in-cabin cameras and steering sensors but handovers remain crash-prone.
- Regulators cite crashes and are investigating FSD for running red lights and wrong-lane behavior.
Regulator Pushback On Tesla Marketing
- California DMV accused Tesla of misleading marketing about Autopilot and FSD capabilities in hearings.
- The agency asked a judge to suspend Tesla's sales and manufacturing pending a decision expected by year-end.