The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in the U.S. has launched an investigation into the Tesla Model Y SUV. The probe centers on concerns that the door handles might malfunction and become inoperable under specific circumstances. The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI), which operates under the NHTSA, announced the investigation on Tuesday following the receipt of complaints from nine Tesla vehicle owners.

These owners reported difficulties in opening the car doors to enter the vehicle. There were particularly alarming situations where parents, after exiting the car, found themselves unable to open the rear doors to get their children out. In four instances, vehicle owners resorted to breaking the car windows to regain access to the vehicle.

Initial assessments suggest that the door handles may stop functioning if the electronic door locks do not receive adequate voltage from the vehicle's battery system. Interestingly, none of the vehicle owners mentioned seeing a low - voltage battery warning.

While Tesla models are equipped with manual door - unlocking mechanisms, these are situated only inside the vehicle. This makes them inaccessible to children in emergency situations. Moreover, some vehicle owners were completely unaware of the existence of these manual mechanisms. At present, Tesla has not issued any response regarding this issue.