It follows several reports that 2021 Tesla Model Y doors failed to open after crashes|OWS Photography|CC BY 4.0
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is investigating Tesla cars after several reports that the 2021 Model Y doors can become inoperative when power is lost, potentially trapping passengers.
The probe follows a Bloomberg report detailing injuries and deaths linked to Tesla doors failing after crashes.
Since 2018, NHTSA has received over 140 complaints of Tesla doors getting stuck or not opening, with several cases involving children trapped inside. Many have had to break open windows to retrieve people and pets.
The investigation is specifically looking into whether Tesla’s doors are affected when the battery is at low voltage. While the probe covers only around 174,290 Tesla units, the regulator said the examination could expand.
Critics argue that Tesla’s electrically powered handles, which other automakers have copied, complicate rescues and force occupants to rely on manual releases that are often unfamiliar or hard for children to operate.
Similar concerns have drawn scrutiny from regulators in China and Europe. The investigation adds to other ongoing federal probes into Tesla’s Autopilot and Full Self-Driving systems.