Asger Risom
Regulators are expanding their investigation into potential safety flaws in Tesla vehicles — an inquiry that could have life-or-death implications for drivers and passengers.
Regulators are expanding their investigation into potential safety flaws in Tesla vehicles — an inquiry that could have life-or-death implications for drivers and passengers.
NHTSA demands answers
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has subpoenaed Tesla to turn over technical documentation related to its door mechanisms and electrical systems.
Faults that can trap passengers
The probe focuses on Tesla’s retractable door handles, which can fail when the car loses power — leaving passengers unable to exit.
Reports of dangerous incidents
Since September, authorities have received at least 16 complaints from Model Y owners describing doors that wouldn’t open after power loss or software faults.
Children trapped inside cars
Some cases involved children stuck inside overheated vehicles, forcing rescuers to smash windows to free them.
The flaw behind the crisis
The failures are linked to Tesla’s electronic-only door system, which relies entirely on battery power and offers limited manual override in emergencies.
Tesla’s response
Chief designer Franz von Holzhausen has acknowledged the issue and said the company intends to modify the design to improve safety during power outages.
Competitors take note
Rivian is reviewing its own retractable handle designs, while Volkswagen has stated it will avoid using them altogether.
International pressure grows
China’s regulators have proposed new rules mandating visible, mechanical emergency releases on all car doors — a move other countries may follow.
How far the probe reaches
The investigation covers multiple Tesla models built between 2017 and 2022, examining their 12V batteries, software, and door-opening systems.
A costly deadline
Tesla has until December 10 to comply with the subpoena or risk fines of nearly $28,000 per day — up to $139 million in total.
Safety over style
The case underscores a growing question for Tesla: has its minimalist design philosophy gone too far, prioritizing sleek engineering over fundamental safety?
This article is made and published by Asger Risom, who may have used AI in the preparation
