A growing number of Tesla owners in the UK and abroad are taking their safety into their own hands by purchasing emergency tools designed to help them escape their vehicles in a crisis.
Rise of Emergency Kits Following Trapping Incidents
The trend is driven by heightened concerns over the reliability of the cars' electronic door release systems. Owners report buying items like specialised glass breakers and third-party manual release accessories to keep in their vehicles. This proactive move follows alarming incidents, including one where a child was reportedly trapped inside a Tesla after its electric doors lost power. The experience was so concerning for the family involved that they ultimately replaced their Tesla with a Honda.
Since 2018, US auto safety regulators have received more than 140 complaints related to malfunctioning electric car doors. The issue is not exclusive to Tesla but affects various electric vehicle brands, with problems often arising after a collision when power systems may fail.
Company Response and Driver-Led Safety Measures
In a significant acknowledgment of the problem, Tesla's chief designer, Franz von Holzhausen, stated in September 2025 that the company is actively redesigning its doors. The new design aims to integrate both electronic and manual release mechanisms to allow for quicker and easier exits during emergencies.
Meanwhile, at a grassroots level, rideshare drivers who use Teslas are reportedly taking matters into their own hands. Some are now providing passengers with impromptu safety briefings, pointing out the often hidden manual door latches to ensure everyone knows how to get out if the primary system fails. This practice underscores the level of concern among those who spend significant time in these vehicles.
What This Means for Electric Vehicle Owners
The situation highlights a critical tension in the evolution of automotive technology: the move towards sleek, electronic convenience versus fail-safe, mechanical redundancy. While Tesla is working on an engineering solution, the current actions of drivers reveal a gap in consumer confidence. For now, carrying an emergency tool has become an unexpected but logical accessory for a segment of modern, tech-forward car owners, prioritising practical safety over pure innovation.
