Update: Market Chatter: NHTSA Presses Tesla On Cybercab Human Controls

04:11 AM EDT, 09/16/2026 (MT Newswires) -- (Updates with additional information in the fifth and sixth paragraphs) US regulators are questioning whether Tesla's (TSLA) steering wheel-free Cybercab can be temporarily fitted with traditional driving controls to meet federal safety standards, The Wall Street Journal reported Tuesday. NHTSA asked whether temporary human-driver controls were part of Tesla's basis for certifying the Cybercab, the report said. The agency earlier this month opened an investigation into the vehicle's compliance, according to the report. The Cybercab operates without pedals, mirrors or a steering wheel, while Tesla has said some versions can have manual controls for testing and safety validation, the report said. NHTSA could order a recall if the vehicle is found noncompliant, according to the report. The regulator is requiring Tesla to respond by Sept. 30 on whether the Cybercab can be driven by a human and whether occupants can use touchscreen controls to move the vehicle, according to a Reuters report. The agency also asked about the robotaxi's maximum speed, geographic or time-of-day operating limits and other restrictions, the report said. Tesla did not immediately respond to MT Newswires' request for comment. (Market Chatter news is derived from conversations with market professionals globally. This information is believed to be from reliable sources but may include rumor and speculation. Accuracy is not guaranteed.)