Tesla Door Handles Are Focus of US Safety Probe After Bloomberg Investigation

Core Viewpoint - The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is investigating Tesla regarding safety concerns related to Model Y doors not opening during power outages, which raises significant safety issues for owners, especially those with children [1][2][3]. Investigation Details - The investigation was prompted by incidents where Tesla owners, including a case involving a child trapped in a vehicle, experienced issues with doors not opening when the battery is depleted [2]. - Tesla has acknowledged in its manuals that doors cannot be opened from the outside if the vehicle loses power, highlighting a critical safety concern [2]. Potential Impact on Tesla - The outcome of the investigation could lead to costly implications for Tesla, particularly if it results in a recall that requires physical modifications to vehicles rather than being resolved through software updates [4]. - Historically, defect investigations do not typically lead to immediate market reactions, as they can take a long time to resolve [3].