NHTSA launches investigation into Tesla Model 3 emergency door handles

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has initiated an investigation into certain Tesla Model 3 vehicles regarding the functionality of the door handles. This action follows a complaint from a Tesla owner who raised concerns about the emergency door handles, stating that the “mechanical door release is hidden, unlabeled, and not intuitive to locate during an emergency.” The driver reported having to escape through the rear window of the 2022 Model 3 after it caught fire, as detailed in an interview on a local Atlanta television news program.

Approximately 179,000 Model 3 cars from the 2022 model year are included in the probe, according to the NHTSA filing. Tesla has yet to provide a response to this matter.

This is not the first instance where the Model 3 has faced scrutiny. In 2023, a tragic incident occurred in Tacoma, Washington, where a couple crashed their Model 3 due to a design flaw that caused the vehicle to accelerate uncontrollably. A door handle issue hindered bystanders from assisting in the rescue, resulting in the death of Wendy Dennis and severe injuries to her husband, Jeff Dennis.

There have been additional reports of individuals becoming trapped in burning Tesla vehicles following accidents that allegedly incapacitated the electric doors, with occupants unable to locate a manual release. Bloomberg recently reported on at least 15 fatalities over the past decade where individuals were unable to open the doors of a crashed and ignited Tesla.

As safety concerns surrounding Tesla vehicles continue to surface, it is crucial for regulators and automakers to address these issues promptly to ensure the well-being of drivers and passengers. Stay tuned for further updates on this ongoing investigation.

This article was edited by Alain Sherter and contributed to by AFP.

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