Tesla failed to convince the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to abandon a recall campaign due to overly bright headlights. The regulator rejected the automaker's petition, ordering the company to fix the defect on 19,900 Model 3 and Model Y vehicles.

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Источник изображения: Chatgpt

The issue affects vehicles from the 2017–2023 model years. In spring 2024, Tesla notified NHTSA that the headlights on some vehicles exceeded the maximum permissible brightness, with the intensity in certain areas of the light beam almost double the established standard.

The company argued that the excess brightness was only observed in specific sectors of the light beam, located outside the natural line of sight of other road users, and therefore should not cause a dazzling effect. In support of its position, Tesla presented its own study, according to which oncoming drivers do not experience discomfort or distracting effects.

Another argument was the absence of official complaints about the headlights. However, NHTSA noted that the lack of complaints in itself does not indicate an absence of risk. Moreover, after the materials were published for public discussion, the regulator received comments from drivers pointing out possible problems.

The agency also emphasized that the position of vehicles on the road is constantly changing. On ascents, descents, and turns, the light beam can enter the field of vision of oncoming drivers. Rain, snow, and fog create additional risk, as excessively bright light can impair visibility due to the formation of a light curtain.

As a result, Tesla will have to notify owners of the affected vehicles and perform free repairs or replace components related to the defect.

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