Tesla Faces Scrutiny Over Model Y Door Safety as Stock Dips

Tesla's stock edged lower amid growing concerns over potential defects in Model Y door mechanisms. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has launched an investigation into over 170,000 vehicles, focusing on failures linked to low-voltage battery depletion. Emergency access risks have taken center stage as reports highlight incidents where doors remained locked post-collision.

In response, Tesla has rolled out new safety features—automatic door unlocks, hazard alerts, and emergency service notifications—activated during severe crashes. These updates, however, vary by vehicle build date and region, leaving gaps in coverage. The company's push to address safety coincides with expanded EV training programs for first responders, emphasizing high-voltage system risks and extrication protocols.

Market reaction reflects heightened sensitivity to EV safety narratives. While Tesla's technological countermeasures aim to mitigate concerns, regulatory scrutiny and media attention continue to weigh on investor sentiment. The outcome of the NHTSA probe could set precedents for how emerging vehicle technologies balance innovation with fail-safes.