The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has initiated a preliminary review into Tesla Inc. following multiple reports of door handle failures that resulted in children being trapped inside 2021 Model Y vehicles. The regulatory probe comes in response to emerging safety concerns regarding the electric vehicle manufacturer's door mechanism performance.
According to the investigation announcement, several incidents have been documented where Tesla door handles failed to operate properly, preventing children from exiting the vehicles. The NHTSA's preliminary evaluation will examine the scope and severity of these door handle malfunctions, which affect Tesla's popular Model Y, the company's best-selling electric SUV.
The regulatory scrutiny highlights potential safety issues with Tesla's innovative door handle design, which differs from traditional mechanical handles. Tesla vehicles feature flush-mounted door handles that electronically extend when the vehicle is unlocked, a design element that has been both praised for its aesthetic appeal and criticized for potential reliability concerns.
The NHTSA's preliminary review represents the first step in a potential regulatory process that could lead to further investigation, recalls, or safety mandates if the agency determines that the door handle issues pose an unreasonable safety risk. Tesla will be required to cooperate with the investigation and provide detailed information about the door handle design, manufacturing processes, and any previous complaints or warranty claims related to the issue.
This development comes as the electric vehicle market continues to expand globally, with increasing regulatory attention on vehicle safety standards and manufacturer accountability. The outcome of the NHTSA investigation could have broader implications for door handle design standards across the automotive industry, particularly as manufacturers incorporate more electronic and automated features into vehicle access systems.
