The US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has launched a comprehensive investigation into evacuation problems in Tesla Model 3 vehicles. This investigation, covering approximately 179,000 vehicles from the 2022 model year, was initiated following a complaint from a driver trapped in a burning vehicle after a head-on collision.

Tesla in the spotlight due to door handles

In the accident, the vehicle’s electrical system completely failed, and the electronic buttons used to open the doors ceased functioning. The driver, attempting to escape the flames inside the vehicle, was unable to open the doors and had to break the window to reach the back seat. The driver suffered a broken hip and arm and underwent hip replacement surgery.

The investigation focuses on the design of Tesla’s door opening mechanisms and the accessibility of emergency equipment. Tesla models feature a hidden mechanical door handle on the interior panel to handle power outages.

Pulling this handle physically opens the door, but the complaining driver stated that he was unaware of its location and that there was no sign indicating its presence in the vehicle. The driver also emphasizes that he was not informed about this during vehicle delivery and that it would not be possible to intuitively locate this mechanism in a moment of panic.

The NHTSA is currently investigating whether this is a technical design flaw or a safety vulnerability resulting from insufficient user information. Tesla, on the other hand, argues that emergency evacuation procedures are detailed in the vehicle’s owner’s manual. The investigation is not limited to the front doors.

Digital manuals for Model 3 vehicles produced by the brand between 2017 and 2022 show that there are no mechanical emergency exit handles for rear passengers. This deficiency is leading to a broader investigation and a reassessment of safety standards. Whether an official recall decision will be made for the vehicles will be determined by the agency’s assessment.