NHTSA Head Resigns After Leading Tesla Autopilot Investigation
Ann Carlson, the acting chief of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), who oversaw the investigation into Tesla's Autopilot system, is stepping down in compliance with a law limiting officials' tenure. NHTSA Deputy Administrator Sophie Shulman will succeed Carlson, who will return to her former position as chief counsel before leaving the agency. Carlson has been involved in pushing for stricter fuel emissions standards and recently announced a recall requiring additional Autopilot safeguards. Tesla has responded by implementing stricter driver monitoring. During her tenure, Carlson also focused on airbag safety and reducing traffic deaths. The NHTSA has not had a Senate-confirmed administrator for most of the past six years.