U.S. Investigates Tesla Model 3 Door Handles in Emergency Escape Complaints

U.S. auto safety officials have opened an investigation into Tesla's Model 3 sedan. The probe follows a driver's complaint about the car's manual door release handles. The concern is that the handles may be difficult for passengers to find and use quickly during an emergency, such as a crash or fire. In a crisis, every second counts for escaping a vehicle. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is reviewing the issue. The agency's report states the complaint alleges the interior door release is "not obvious and very hard to find." It is located on the armrest and requires two actions to operate. This investigation covers an estimated 500,000 Model 3 cars from the 2018 through 2020 model years. The NHTSA's preliminary evaluation will determine if the design poses an unreasonable safety risk. Tesla has not yet commented on the investigation. The NHTSA has not ordered a recall at this stage.