Tesla Recalls MY 2008 Roadsters

Even if they are often regarded as the best way to tackle the economic chaos - at least from the point of view of car manufacturers -, electric cars are not necessarily 100 percent reliable. A notification published on the official website of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) warns that no less than 345 model year 2008 Tesla Roadsters are affected by a malfunction that could eventually lead to a crash.

"Tesla Motors is recalling 345 model year 2008 Tesla Roadster vehicles manufactured between March 2008 and April 22, 2009," NHTSA mentioned in the advisory. "The rear hub flange bolts on some of these vehicles may be under-torqued and may become loose," it explained the main reason for the recall. "A loose hub could lead to degradation in vehicle handling, and a rubbing noise from the rear of the vehicle."

Obviously, in case you own one of the models mentioned in the advisory, you should get your car checked as soon as possible. Wondering what could happen if such a glitch occurs? "If the problem is not addressed promptly, the driver could lose control of the vehicle, which could lead to a crash," NHTSA warned.

Just as expected, dealers participating to the program will inspect and repair the affected vehicles free of charge. Recalls are expected to begin during May or June 2009, with the parent company to contact every owner of the car and inform him/her about the program.

Tesla Roadster is an electric car produced by Tesla Motors and assembled at a Lotus factory in England. The model achieves remarkable performance figures, including a 0 - 100 km/h sprint in 3.9 seconds and maximum speed of 125 mph (201 km/h).