Feds Not Concerned Over Recent Tesla Fire

U.S. auto safety regulators have decided not to open a formal investigation into the Oct. 2 fire that damaged a Tesla electric car near Seattle.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said Thursday there's no indication at this time that the fire was caused by a safety defect or that there was any violation of federal vehicle safety standards.

The agency said in a statement that it reviewed all available data and will continue to check consumer complaints and other information. A NHTSA spokesman said that he could not comment beyond the statement.

The Tesla Model S hit road debris on a freeway in Kent, Wash. The debris punctured an underbody shield and the battery, which is mounted beneath the passenger compartment. The crash touched off a fire that engulfed the front of the car. The driver escaped without injury and firefighters put out the flames.

Experts say when a battery cell is pierced, it can cause a short circuit that can lead to arcing and sparks that can touch off a fire.