Trapped in a Tesla? Here's Your Emergency Escape Plan

Tech bros and Silicon Valley enthusiasts, listen up - your sleek electric ride might turn into a potential death trap. Tesla’s futuristic door handles aren’t just aesthetically cool, they’re potentially life-threatening.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has been tracking over 140 consumer complaints about Tesla door malfunctions since 2018. These aren’t just minor inconveniences - we’re talking about situations where passengers could be literally stuck inside a burning vehicle.
The Dark Side of Cool Tech
A recent Bloomberg investigation revealed a terrifying scenario: when Teslas lose their low-voltage power supply during a crash, those fancy electronic door handles become useless. Imagine being trapped in a burning vehicle because your high-tech door won’t open - not exactly the Silicon Valley dream, right?
First Responders’ Nightmare
Even professional emergency responders are struggling to access these vehicles. The flush exterior handles require power to function, and Tesla’s reinforced windows are notoriously difficult to break. It’s like the car is designed to keep you in, not help you out.
Your Survival Guide
Until Tesla redesigns these potentially deadly door handles, here’s what you need to know: Each Tesla model has a manual release mechanism hidden in slightly different locations. For most models, you’ll need to look near window switches or in door pockets for a mechanical release cable.
The takeaway? Always know your emergency exit strategy before stepping into any high-tech vehicle. Your life might depend on understanding these intricate mechanical details.
AUTHOR: cgp
SOURCE: SF Standard