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NHTSA Opens Probe Into 174K Tesla Model Y SUVs After Reports Of Children Trapped Inside: 'A Child May Not Be Able To…' - Tesla (NASDAQ:TSLA)
TeslaTesla(US:TSLA) Benzinga·2025-09-17 04:20

Investigation into Tesla Model Y - The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has initiated an investigation into approximately 174,290 Tesla Model Y SUVs due to issues with faulty electronic door handles [1][6] - Complaints have been received from owners of the 2021 Model Y who reported being unable to re-enter their vehicles after exiting, with some parents having to break windows to regain access [2][3] Safety Concerns - The NHTSA's investigation highlights that the electronic door locks may become inoperative due to insufficient voltage from the vehicle's battery, which could pose risks during emergencies, particularly for children [4][5] - The investigation will assess the technology Tesla uses to supply power to the electronic door handles [4] Related Industry Developments - In China, authorities are proposing a ban on electronically-operated flush door handles by 2027 due to safety concerns, which could impact electric vehicle manufacturers [7] - Ford has also issued a recall for over 197,000 Mustang Mach-E vehicles due to similar issues with electronically-operated door handles, affecting rear seat occupants [8] Tesla's Performance in China - The Tesla Model Y L, a six-seater variant exclusive to China, has seen strong sales with 120,000 orders and an average of 10,000 orders per day [9] - Tesla's sales in China have increased in Q3, with 15,400 new insured registrations reported in the second week of September [10]