The US auto safety regulator has released preliminary data on the 6,813 Ocean SUVs produced by Fisker in 2023 after reports of unplanned activation of auto emergency braking systems in these electric vehicles. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there have been eight complaints, which relate to situations where the braking system engaged without any visible obstacle in the car’s path, causing the car to suddenly slow down. Among these claims, three cases involve injuries occurred during the incidents.
The NHTSA’s inquiry is aimed to reveal the spread and severity of this problem and the implications for the safety. The investigation may close without any further action against Fisker, but it will only add to the problems that the company is facing, which is already under scrutiny for the previous concerns regarding its Ocean SUVs. Recent door malfunctions cases of the corporation’s electric vehicles have also contributed to the scrutiny pressure from the authorities.
Fisker’s trouble concerns not only regulatory woes. The company has been struggling with financial problems, with its ability to continue operations being in question at the beginning of the year. In February, fears emerged about its financial sustainability and its stock got delisted from New York Stock Exchange. Besides the failure of negotiations with a leading automotive company in March for a possible deal.
In April, Fisker did not meet the interest payment of about USD 8. The government is USD 4M in debt to pay certain notes in 2026, causing worries about its paying capacity of debts. The Austrian subsidiary of the automaker now being under insolvency proceedings, Fisker has actively targeted strategic options to meet its financial needs and comply with its commitments.