The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) opened an investigation Thursday into whether Tesla's new Cybercab model complies with federal motor vehicle safety standards (FMVSS). The probe began the same day Tesla displayed dozens of Cybercabs in Austin, Texas, near the factory where they are produced.

Tesla plans to offer paid rides in the Cybercabs, which lack steering wheels, brake pedals, and side and rearview mirrors. Federal regulations require cars to have brakes and steering wheels, though carmakers typically self-certify compliance. NHTSA said it will examine whether Tesla determined certain FMVSS are inapplicable to the Cybercab.

The investigation presents a potential obstacle to Tesla's driverless ride-hailing ambitions. Tesla did not immediately respond to requests for comment.