Electric vehicles have gained popularity in recent years, offering numerous benefits for the environment and drivers alike. However, like any technology, they too have their flaws, which can sometimes lead to dangerous situations. One such incident occurred to Renee Sanchez, a grandmother from Phoenix, and her 20-month-old granddaughter.

On a day planned for enjoying a trip to the zoo, Sanchez placed her granddaughter in the car seat, excited for their outing. But when she tried to open the front door, a major problem arose – her electric car was completely dead. Neither her phone key nor her card key could unlock the vehicle. She found herself locked out, with her granddaughter safely strapped inside.

With no other choice, Sanchez dialed 911, hoping for a solution. However, even the first responders faced a challenge. “It’s a Tesla. We can’t get in these cars,” they exclaimed. Sanchez pleaded for them to do whatever it took to rescue her granddaughter, even if it meant cutting her car in half.

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Finally, firefighters arrived and began using an axe to break the Tesla’s window. As they worked to free her granddaughter, the little girl began to cry. Once safely in her grandmother’s arms, anger began to replace fear and relief. It turned out that the 12-volt battery in her vehicle had died without any warnings. Despite Tesla’s system designed to give three warnings before battery failure, Sanchez had not received any. The Tesla service department confirmed the lack of warnings.

Now, Renee Sanchez advocates for better education among first responders regarding dead electric vehicle situations. “They were as much in the dark as I was,” she expressed. Despite the terrifying ordeal, Sanchez still recognizes the benefits of owning a Tesla but has become more cautious. “I give Tesla props. When it works, it’s great. But when it doesn’t, it can be deadly,” she concluded.

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