US regulator launched a preliminary investigation into the fatal crash in Pleasanton, California which killed a family of 4.
The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) commenced the investigation into the VinFast crash in California on April 24, which led to the demise of four family members. The deceased also included two children aged 9 and 13. This tragic incident occurred when a VF8 electric SUV crashed into an oak tree in Pleasanton, California. After the crash, the EV was engulfed in flames. The deceased were identified as Tarun George, Rincy George and their two children.
You might also like: VinFast Unveils Two Vehicles at CES 2024 – Electric Pickup Truck and Small Electric SUV
VinFast Crash Under Investigation
A Reuters report confirms that the investigation started after a coworker of the deceased driver filed a complaint with NHTSA on April 29 regarding a steering problem in the electric SUV. He feared that the same issue could’ve been the reason for the fatal crash. Reportedly, he loaned the vehicle to the Tarun. The Police said that no other vehicles were involved in this crash and that speed could’ve played a role.
After hitting an oak tree, the EV caught fire. However, the Pleasanton Police Lt. Erik Silacci, while speaking to Pleasanton Weekly, said that the investigators think that the passengers died due to the impact and not the ensuing fire. NHTSA typically opens over 100 special crash investigations annually. These are mostly in relation to emerging technologies and potential auto safety issues.
After receiving the news of the deadly crash, VinFast spokesman told the Pleasanton Weekly that the company is “aware of this tragic accident in Pleasanton and our hearts go out to the family. The authorities are currently investigating the cause of the accident and will share their findings when their work is completed.” Hence, we must wait for more concrete details until the completion of this investigation.
You might also like: 2025 Rivian R1 EVs To Get Heat Pump As Standard, New LFP Battery
Learn Electric Cars Says
It clearly looks like the Vietnamese carmaker is really struggling at the moment. Remember it started selling the VF8 electric SUV in the U.S. in January 2023. However, it faced a recall due to the infotainment screen going blank. On top of that, the sales figures were quite disappointing throughout 2023. It is clearly not the start VinFast was looking for. Thankfully, the sales seem to be picking up in 2024. Let us see which impact this investigation has on its sales going forward.