Watch CBS News

Tesla Looking At Cameras, Radar In Deadly Autopilot Crash

PALO ALTO (CBS / AP) -- A person familiar with the discussions says Tesla has told Senate committee staffers that its engineers have two main theories about what caused a fatal crash in Florida involving one of its electric cars in self-driving mode.

Either the car's cameras and radar failed to spot a crossing tractor-trailer. Or the cameras didn't see the rig and the car's computer thought the radar signal was false, possibly from an overpass or sign.

Tesla officials disclosed the theories a briefing with U.S. Senate Commerce Committee staff members Thursday, said the person, who didn't want to be identified because the meeting was private.

Government regulators are investigating the May 7 crash to see if Tesla's Autopilot system may have a defect. Neither the Autopilot nor the driver braked before hitting the rig.

© Copyright 2016 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.