Tesla plans to replace the tower assembly of the Model Y due to encountered issues
The US traffic safety agency, NHTSA, has launched an investigation into door lock problems in Tesla's Model Y from the 2021 model year. This investigation follows concerns about the ease of opening doors in emergency situations and reports of difficulties in retrieving children from the back seat.
Tesla's compact SUV, the Model Y, is at the heart of this investigation. In four of the nine cases, parents have reportedly broken the windows to retrieve their children, highlighting the urgency of the issue.
The NHTSA's initial findings suggest that the door locks not receiving power is the cause of the problems. In the Model Y, the battery powers the door locks, windows, doors, and touchscreen separately. Under normal circumstances, doors are opened electrically, but if the power supply fails, mechanical door openers must be used. These openers can be hidden behind door panels or under seats, and their locations vary from model to model.
In response to the criticism and regulatory investigations, Tesla's chief designer, Franz von Holzhausen, has stated that the company is working on combining electronic and mechanical locking technology in one button to improve door opening in panic situations. This move aims to make emergency door opening simpler and more accessible.
Tesla's electric vehicles, including millions of sold models, have exterior door handles that are hidden and require an interior button for opening. In case of an accident, occupants must find and operate these mechanical door openers. The NHTSA has emphasized the need for 12-volt power from an external source to open the door locks in emergency situations.
To open the door locks from the outside, 12-volt power from an external source needs to be connected to two specific points. This requirement underscores the importance of having a reliable power source in emergency situations.
As the investigation continues, Tesla's design and engineering teams, led by Elon Musk, are proposing design changes to improve door handle functionality and manual unlocking capabilities for emergency situations. The company is working diligently to address these concerns and ensure the safety of its customers.
This investigation serves as a reminder of the importance of safety features in electric vehicles, particularly in emergency situations. Tesla, like all automakers, is committed to continuous improvement and ensuring the safety and convenience of its customers.
