NHTSA Launches Investigation into Avride Following Multiple Robotaxi Crashes

• May 9, 2026

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in the United States has initiated a formal inquiry into Avride, a company focused on autonomous driving technology. Avride, part of the Nebius group founded by Arkady Volozh, who was previously associated with Yandex, has been linked to a series of incidents involving its robotaxi services.

The investigation comes after reports of 16 separate traffic accidents connected to Avride’s autonomous vehicles. Among these incidents, one resulted in a minor injury to a passenger or pedestrian. The exact circumstances of each collision have not been fully detailed by the NHTSA.

NHTSA Probes Safety of Avride’s Self-Driving Technology

Avride’s involvement in advanced autopilot technology places it at the forefront of the autonomous vehicle sector. However, the recent spate of crashes has prompted regulatory scrutiny. The NHTSA’s review will focus on the safety performance of Avride’s robotaxi fleet, assessing whether there are systemic issues or technical shortcomings that may have contributed to these accidents.

The company’s connection to Nebius, a technology group founded by Arkady Volozh, a prominent figure who co-founded Yandex, adds a notable dimension to this investigation. Nebius has positioned Avride as a key player in the autonomous mobility market, emphasizing innovations in driverless car systems.

While the investigation is ongoing, NHTSA’s involvement signals increased governmental oversight of autonomous vehicle operations, especially when public safety concerns arise. The outcome may impact future regulatory policies and the deployment of robotaxi services in the U.S.

No additional details on the investigation’s timeline or findings have been released, nor has Avride issued public comments regarding the crashes or the probe. The development underscores the challenges facing companies advancing self-driving technologies amid evolving safety standards and public trust issues.

The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration investigates Avride after 16 collisions involving its autonomous taxi technology.