Tesla's Troubles: NHTSA Probes Model Y Door Defects

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is investigating potential defects in Tesla Model Y electronic door handles that have stranded passengers inside due to low battery voltage. The probe covers around 1,74,300 vehicles and adds pressure on Tesla amid declining sales and previous safety concerns.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has commenced an investigation into reports of defects in Tesla Model Y electronic door handles that may have left passengers, including children, trapped inside the vehicle due to battery issues. Parents have reportedly had to break windows to rescue occupants.

The investigation zeroes in on incidents with the 2021 Model Y, with regulators receiving nine reports of malfunctioning door handles due to low battery voltage. Despite manual door releases being available within the vehicles, their design might be inaccessible to children.

This probe is part of wider scrutiny Tesla faces, including inquiries into driver-assistance features and reporting protocols. The challenge intensifies as Tesla grapples with declining sales and CEO Elon Musk's controversial political stances.

(With inputs from agencies.)