By asahifile 
Tesla’s Door Handle Issue Under NHTSA Investigation
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has launched an investigation into Tesla’s electronic door handles following a concerning report highlighting safety risks associated with the design. The investigation specifically targets the 2021 Model Y, potentially impacting approximately 174,290 vehicles. This scrutiny comes on the heels of a detailed review by Bloomberg, which brought attention to serious incidents where individuals were trapped inside their vehicles due to malfunctioning door mechanisms when the low-voltage battery failed.
Tesla’s door handles are designed to pop out electronically, a feature powered by a 12-volt battery. Unfortunately, if this battery fails, the handles do not operate, creating significant risks during emergencies. Although Tesla vehicles have manual door releases, their varied locations can make them hard to locate, especially in distressing situations where quick access is vital.
Recent incidents, as reported by Bloomberg, reveal alarming cases of entrapment. For example, an off-duty firefighter struggled to rescue a passenger trapped in a burning Model Y. In a separate event, three college students lost their lives trapped inside a Cybertruck that caught fire. These harrowing stories underscore the potential dangers of relying on electronic systems without robust backup solutions.
The NHTSA’s investigation is particularly focused on complaints received since 2018, with over 140 reports highlighting issues with stuck doors. The gravity of these situations is further emphasized by reports of individuals resorting to breaking windows to escape trapped scenarios.
Tesla’s innovative approach to vehicle design, while visually striking, raises critical safety concerns that could prove costly for the automaker if the investigation expands to include all models using electronic door handles.
Key Takeaways:
- The NHTSA is investigating Tesla’s electronic door handles after safety concerns were raised.
- Incidents of entrapment due to door malfunctions are becoming alarmingly common, leading to fatalities.
- Tesla’s stylish door designs must balance aesthetics with safety to prevent further tragedies.