WSJ Tech News Briefing

Episode: TNB Tech Minute: Tesla Under Investigation for Model Ys Trapping Occupants
Date: September 16, 2025
Host: Zoe Culkin, The Wall Street Journal

Episode Overview

Today's TNB Tech Minute focuses on a developing issue in the automotive and tech world: U.S. regulators have launched an investigation into Tesla Model Y vehicles after multiple reports of door lock malfunctions, with particular focus on incidents involving parents unable to access their cars when their children are inside. The episode also briefly covers major investment announcements by Google in the UK and ABB’s expansion for data center infrastructure in the U.S.

Key Discussion Points and Insights

1. Tesla Model Y Door Lock Investigation

[00:32 – 01:04]

• The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has started a preliminary investigation into certain 2021 Tesla Model Ys following nine reports detailing issues with the door locks.
• Primary Concern: Parents reporting an inability to open the car when their child is inside, raising serious safety and accessibility concerns.
• The investigation aims to assess both the scope and severity of the problem, and could potentially lead to recalls or further regulatory actions.

Memorable Quote:

“So far, there have been nine reports of issues with the door locks, most commonly a parent being unable to get into the vehicle when their child is in the back seat.” – Zoe Culkin [00:38]

2. Google’s Large-Scale UK Investment

[01:04 – 01:18]

• Google announces a £5 billion (nearly $7 billion USD) investment in the UK over two years.
• Focus areas:
  • Artificial intelligence research and development
  • Enhancing cybersecurity
  • Job creation: Google estimates 8,000 new jobs per year across the UK.
• The move underscores the UK’s position as a global hub for AI advancement and cybersecurity.

3. ABB’s U.S. Infrastructure Boost

[01:18 – 01:38]

• ABB, the Swiss electric engineering group, will invest $110 million in four U.S. manufacturing sites.
• Purpose: To meet rising demand for data center infrastructure and upgrades to the power grid.
• Notable product: The Emax 3 circuit breakers, protecting critical data infrastructure.
• Anticipated outcome: Creation of up to 200 new jobs in U.S. manufacturing.

Notable Quotes and Moments

• On Tesla Investigation:

  “U.S. traffic safety regulators have opened an investigation into some 2021 Tesla Model Y vehicles due to reports of door lock problems.” – Zoe Culkin [00:33]

• On Google’s Ambition:

  “The company said its investment in AI research and development and related engineering will help advance the technology, strengthen cybersecurity and create more than 8,000 jobs a year across the UK.” – Zoe Culkin [01:10]

• On ABB’s Expansion:

  “The move would allow the company to make its Emax 3 circuit breakers, which are used to protect critical infrastructure like data centers in the U.S.” – Zoe Culkin [01:28]

Timestamps for Important Segments

• 00:32: Tesla Model Y investigation introduction
• 00:38: Details of Model Y door lock incidents
• 01:04: Google announces UK investment in AI and cybersecurity
• 01:18: ABB’s $110M investment in U.S. manufacturing for data center products

Tone and Style

• Concise, factual, and urgent—consistent with a tech news segment.
• Focuses on safety, technological transformation, and major business investments impacting jobs and innovation.

This episode provides a rapid, news-driven snapshot of critical developments at the intersection of technology, safety, and industrial investment. For listeners in the automotive, tech, or policy sectors, the preliminary Tesla Model Y probe is especially notable for its consumer safety implications, while Google’s and ABB’s investments highlight ongoing shifts in the global tech economy.