Tesla’s Cybercab, a distinctive two-seater without a steering wheel or brake pedals, is set to start picking up members of the public in two states. But the vehicle is already under investigation by the US federal government,

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is probing Tesla’s safety procedures a day after it launched a ride service in Austin using the new model.

The company says no children under 13 can ride -- even with a parent. That's more restrictive than the Model Y SUVs it's using as robotaxis.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said it would examine whether the company’s new self-driving taxi, which has no steering wheel, meets federal auto regulations.

Tesla is facing a NHTSA audit inquiry into its self-certification for the Cybercab hours after deploying a small number of the robotaxis in Austin.

Tesla shares fell Friday after the electric-vehicle maker's much-anticipated Cybercab launch, leaving some Wall Street analysts with more questions than answers. The stock dropped more than 6%, putting it on pace for its worst day since July 23 — when it plunged 15%.

Riders in Austin can now hail the two-seater. The company's own July letter says batteries still set the pace.