NTSB investigates Tesla semi-truck crash and fire in California

The U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) opened an investigation into the crash and fire involving a Tesla (NASDAQ:TSLA) electric truck tractor that occurred in Northern California on Monday, August 19.

The NTSB confirmed in a post on social media platform X that it will carry out the investigation alongside the California Highway Patrol.

The Tesla (TSLA) semi-truck crashed on Interstate 80 near Emigrant Gap late on Monday night after its engine caught fire, closing off a highway for more than half a day, Reuters said. No injuries were reported.

This inquiry comes amidst ongoing discussions about the safety of electric vehicles, particularly regarding how fires in such vehicles can behave differently compared to traditional internal combustion engine vehicles.

Tesla (TSLA) stock price has tumbled 10.15% year-to-date, versus a broader market (SP500) gain of 17.84%.

Seeking Alpha’s quant rating system gives Tesla (TSLA) a Hold rating with the lowest factor grade given to valuation.