INFORMATION FOR FIRST AND SECOND RESPONDERS
EMERGENCY RESPONSE GUIDE
TESLA
MODEL S
ELECTRIC
VERSION: 001
CONTENTS
0. Emergency Response Sheet Page 1
1. Identification / recognition
2. Immobilization / stabilization / lifting
3. Disable direct hazards / safety regulations
4. Access to the occupants
5. Stored energy / liquids / gases / solids
6. In case of fire
Page 2
Page 5
Page 7
Page 12
Page 19
Page 23
7. In case of submersion
8. Towing / transportation / storage
9. Important additional information
10. Explanation pictograms used
Model S Emergency Response Guide
Page 25
Page 26
Page 28
Page 29
TESLA MODEL S
From 2016—2021
TESLA MODEL S
From 2016 — 2021
Airbag Stored gas
Automatic
rollover
protection
system
Battery
low voltage
High
voltage
battery
pack
Cable cut
inflator
Gas strut/
pre-loaded
spring
Ultra capacitor, low
voltage
High voltage power
cable/component
Seatbelt
pretensioner
High
strength
zone
Fuel tank Gas tank Safety
High
voltage
disconnect
SRS
Control
Unit
Zone
requiring
special
attention
Fuse box
disabling
high
voltage
system
Pedestrian
protection
active
system
valve
Ultra
capacitor, high
voltage
ID No. Version No.
TESLA–202012–004
01
1. Identification / recognition
WARNING
LACK OF ENGINE NOISE DOES NOT MEAN VEHICLE IS OFF. SILENT
MOVEMENT OR INSTANT RESTART CAPABILITY EXISTS UNTIL VEHICLE IS FULLY
SHUT DOWN. WEAR APPROPRIATE PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT (PPE).
Badging and Door Handles
Model S can be identified by its badges and uniquely shaped door handles. The model name
appears on the rear of the vehicle.
NOTE: The “D” at the end of the battery badge (or “DUAL MOTOR” badge for newer vehicles)
on the RH side of the vehicle indicates that the vehicle is a Dual Motor configuration.
NOTE: The Tesla emblem indicates a fully electric vehicle.
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
Model S can be identified by its VIN. Locate the stamped plate on the top of the dashboard by
looking through the driver’s side of the windshield. Model S is identified with a “S” in the 4th
alphanumeric position. The VIN can also be found on the driver’s side door pillar for North
American configurations, and on some vehicles, under the carpet behind the passenger seat.
Model S Emergency Response Guide
2
Touchscreen
Model S can be identified by its 17 in (43 cm) touchscreen that is mounted in a “portrait”
orientation. Model S has an instrument cluster in front of the steering wheel.
Refer to the Owner’s Manual for information on touchscreen operation. If vehicle airbags have
deployed, 12V power may not be available and the touchscreen will not be operational. Trying
to support 12V power on a vehicle that has been in an accident could lead to a possible 12V
electrical fire. Tesla does not recommend attempting to reconnect 12V power.
Model S Emergency Response Guide
3
Keys
Model S supports 2 types of keys.
• Authenticated phone – A personal smartphone can be set up to communicate with
Model S using Bluetooth. If a smartphone is already paired to the vehicle, open the Tesla
mobile app on the smartphone and navigate to CONTROLS to unlock or lock Model S.
• Key fob –
The key fob is shaped like a miniature Model S. It allows you to press
buttons to open the front and rear trunks and unlock, lock, and drive Model S. Use the
key buttons as shown below.
1. Rear trunk. Double-click to open the rear trunk.
2. Unlock all. Double-click to unlock doors and both trunks.
3. Hood/front trunk. Double-click to open the hood to access the front trunk.
Model S Emergency Response Guide
4
2. Immobilization / stabilization / lifting
IMMOBILIZATION
1. Chock wheels
Model S moves silently, so never assume it is powered o. Drivers can choose a setting
that determines whether or not Model S will “creep” when a drive gear is selected. If this
setting is o, Model S may not move unless the accelerator pedal is pressed, even if shifted
into Drive or Reverse. However, never assume that Model S will not move. Always chock the
wheels.
WARNING Be careful to not damage the battery pack while stabilizing the vehicle.
2. Put vehicle into Park position
Model S moves silently, so never assume it is powered o. Pressing the accelerator pedal
even slightly can cause Model S to accelerate quickly if the active gear is Drive or Reverse. To
ensure that the parking brake is engaged, press the button on the end of the gear selector to
shift into Park. Whenever Model S is in Park, the parking brake is automatically engaged and
the touchscreen shows the active gear as Park (P).
Model S Emergency Response Guide
5
STABILIZATION / LIFTING POINTS
The high voltage battery is located under the floor pan. A large section of the undercarriage
houses the high voltage battery. When lifting or stabilizing Model S, only use the designated
lift areas, as shown in green.
WARNING
Be careful to not damage the battery pack while stabilizing / lifting the
vehicle.
WARNING
The vehicle should be lifted or manipulated only if first responders are
trained and equipped at the technician level per National Fire Protection Association
(NFPA) and are familiar with the vehicle’s lifting points. Use caution to ensure you
never come into contact with the high voltage battery or other high voltage
components while lifting or manipulating the vehicle.
WARNING
DO NOT USE THE HIGH VOLTAGE BATTERY TO LIFT OR STABILIZE
MODEL S.
Model S Emergency Response Guide
Appropriate lift areas
Safe stabilization points for a
Model S resting on its side
High voltage battery
6
3. Disable direct hazards / safety regulations
ACCESS
1. Open the hood (see chapter 4: Access to the Occupants).
2. Remove the access panel by pulling it upward to release the clips that hold it in place.
MAIN DISABLE METHOD
1. Double cut the first responder loop and then remove the cut section.
2. Disable the 12V battery.
WARNING
Not every high voltage component is labeled. Always wear
appropriate PPE. Always double cut the first responder loop. Do not attempt
to open the High Voltage (HV) battery.
Model S Emergency Response Guide
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Cable Cut
When cut, the First Responder Loop disables 12V power going to the airbag circuit. Cutting
of the First Responder Loop also removes 12V power going to the high voltage contactors
inside the high voltage battery pack. Cutting the first responder loop does not disable the
12V battery system. The 12V battery negative cable must be cut in order to disable the 12V
battery system.
The First Responder Loop is located on the passenger-side of the vehicle for left-hand drive
vehicles. The First Responder Loop remains in the same location for right-hand drive vehicles.
The high voltage contactors are like a light switch. When “open” or in the “o” position, the
lights would be o in the room so the high voltage would be isolated to the battery pack.
When “closed” or in the on position, the lights would be on in the room so the high voltage in
the battery pack would be connected to the high voltage components. On Model S
vehicles, those high voltage components include the rear drive unit, the front drive unit, the
air conditioning compressor, the coolant heater, and the cabin postive temperature coecient (PTC) heater.
When the vehicle has been in an accident and the First Responder Loop has been cut, always
treat the pack and the high voltage components as if they are live, because the pack will still
have stored energy within the cells and it is not known if other high voltage
components have been damaged. Treat every orange cable and battery pack as if there is
high voltage in it. Never cut an orange high voltage cable or cut into the battery pack.
There is no way to instantaneously discharge the energy that is inside of the battery pack
when a vehicle is in an accident. There is stored energy in battery cells. Caution must be used
to not damage the battery pack in the case of vehicle extrication operations.
1. First responder cut loop
2. Battery Low-Voltage
Model S Emergency Response Guide
8
Battery Low-Voltage
When the vehicle’s hood is opened, the 12V battery is accessible underneath the
access panel next to the windshield. When necessary, the negative battery cable should be
double cut to open the 12V battery circuit. Care should always be taken to not make contact
with the positive and negative battery terminals when double cutting the negative battery
cable.
In addition to the high voltage system, Model S has a low voltage electrical system. Its 12V
battery operates the SRS, airbags, windows, door locks, touchscreen, and interior and
exterior lights. The DC-DC converter in the high voltage system charges the 12V battery, and
the 12V battery supplies power to the high voltage contactors, allowing high voltage current
to flow into and out of the high voltage battery. The 12V battery, outlined in red, is located
under the hood and the plastic access panel.
Model S Emergency Response Guide
9
Airbags
Airbags are located in the approximate areas shown. Airbag warning information is printed on
the sun visors.
When the airbags have been deployed by the Restraint Control Module (RCM), the pyro-technic
fuse that deactivates the vehicle’s high voltage system will be simultaneously triggered.
Model S is designed to deactivate high voltage in all components and cables outside of the high
voltage battery when an airbag is deployed. Care must be taken as to not cut any orange high
voltage cables or try to gain access into the battery pack. Even though the high voltage system
has shut down due to the airbags being deployed, it must always be assumed that there may
be high voltage present in the high voltage cables and components. The battery cells within the
battery pack will have stored energy and should not be compromised with rescue tools.
The First Responder Loop should be cut in order to open the 12V circuit that provides power to
the airbags. See the First Responder Loop section for more details.
NOTE: Left Hand Drive, North American vehicle shown. On Right Hand Drive vehicles, the
components are mirrored.
1. Passenger knee airbag (North America only)
2. Passenger front airbag
3. Seat-mounted side airbags
4. Curtain airbags
5. Driver’s knee airbag (North America only)
6. Driver’s front airbag
WARNING
The RCM has an internal energy reserve which allows it to remain
powered for some time after the 12V power is disconnected. The RCM will remain
powered (from the vehicle) after it deploys any airbag or pre-tensioner. Do not touch
the RCM within 10 seconds of an airbag or pre-tensioner deployment.
Model S Emergency Response Guide
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Stored Gas Inflator
The stored gas inflators, outlined in red, are located near the roof and towards the rear of the
vehicle.
WARNING
Rescuers should never cut or crush inflation cylinders. Cutting or
compressing cylinders causes catastrophic failure, leading to injury or death.
WARNING
The RCM has a backup power supply with a discharge time of
approximately 10 seconds. Do not touch the RCM within 10 seconds of an airbag or
pre-tensioner deployment.
Seat Belt Pre-Tensioners
The seat belt pre-tensioners, outlined in red, are located at the bottom of the B-pillars and
outboard of the 2nd row seats.
WARNING
Electrical and mechanical releases may be compromised after a
collision.
Model S Emergency Response Guide
11
4. Access to the occupants
NOTE: The seats and steering wheel are electrically powered and may not function after a
collision.
NOTE: After a collision, the doors and liftgate may not unlock from the outside. Extrication may
be required.
Opening Doors from the Outside with Power
To open the Model S doors from the outside with 12V power enabled, press the exterior handles.
NOTE: If the door handles do not function, open a front door manually by reaching inside the
open window and using the mechanical release handle. See Opening Doors from Inside
without Power.
Opening Doors from the Inside with Power
To open the Model S doors from the inside with 12V power enabled, pull the interior door handle
towards you.
The rear doors may have child safety locks engaged.NOTE:
Model S Emergency Response Guide
12
Opening Doors from the Inside without Power
To open the Model S front doors from the inside without 12V power, pull the mechanical
release handle towards you. To open the Model S rear doors from the inside without 12V
power, fold back the edge of the carpet below the rear seats and pull the mechanical release
cable toward the center of the vehicle.
It is important to know that in any vehicle collision with damage to the driver or passenger
front door, the mechanical door release may not operate as designed. It is also important to
remember that every vehicle accident is dierent and may require extrication operations to
gain access to the vehicle’s cabin.
NOTE: Compromised doors may not release mechanically.
Model S Emergency Response Guide
13
Moving the Front Seats with Power
Model S has electrically powered seats that move with buttons located on the side of the seat
closest to the door. The buttons operate only when 12V power is enabled.
1. Moves seat forward/backward and adjust the seat’s height and tilt angle up/down.
2. Adjusts rest.
3. Adjusts lumbar support.
NOTE: If 12V power is not available, the front seats cannot be moved.
Model S Emergency Response Guide
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Opening the Hood
Model S does not have a traditional internal combustion engine. Therefore, the area that would
normally house the engine is used as additional storage space. Tesla calls this area the “Front
Trunk”.
To open the hood, use one of the following methods:
• Touch the associated OPEN button on the touchscreen (Controls > Quick Controls) for
the front trunk.
• Double-click the front trunk button on the key.
• Pull the release cables located in the front wheel arch liners. First, release the cover in
the RH front wheel well and pull the strap to release the primary latch. Then, release the
cover in the LH front wheel well and pull the strap to release the secondary latch.
Model S Emergency Response Guide
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Opening the Liftgate with Power
To open the liftgate, use one of the following methods:
• Touch the associated OPEN button on the touchscreen (Controls > Quick Controls) for
the liftgate.
• Double-click the liftgate button on the key.
• Press the switch located under the exterior handle on the liftgate.
NOTE: The vehicle may be configured with either a motorized or mechanical liftgate.
Opening the Liftgate from Inside without Power
1. Remove the cover by pulling its lower edge very firmly toward you.
2. Pull the cable to release the latch.
3. Push the liftgate open.
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High Strength Zone
Model S is heavily reinforced to protect occupants. The B-pillar is made of High Strength Steel.
Suitable tools must be used to cut or crush these areas. Reinforcements are shown in teal below.
All other structural body components are made up or various strengths of aluminum.
WARNING
Always use appropriate tools, such as a hydraulic cutter, and always wear
appropriate PPE when cutting Model S. Failure to follow these instructions can result
in serious injury or death.
WARNING
Regardless of the disabling procedure you use, ALWAYS ASSUME THAT
ALL HIGH VOLTAGE COMPONENTS ARE ENERGIZED! Cutting, crushing, or touching
high voltage components can result in serious injury or death.
Model S Emergency Response Guide
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No-Cut Zones
Model S has areas that are defined as “no-cut zones” due to the presence of high voltage, gas
struts, SRS components, or other hazards. Never cut or crush in these areas. Doing so could
result in serious injury or death. The “no-cut zones” are shown in pink.
NOTE: The following image shows a Dual Motor vehicle. Vehicles without a front drive unit are
similar.
Windows
The windshield, roof glass, and rear liftgate glass are made of laminated safety glass. The side
windows can be either tempered or laminated glass.
1. Laminated safety glass
2. Tempered or laminated safety glass
3. Tempered safety glass
Model S Emergency Response Guide
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5. Stored energy / liquids / gases / solids
12V
400V
WARNING
The cells in the HV battery are sealed and there is not
enough electrolyte to create a pool of liquid. Clear liquid is likely water.
The coolant is blue.
High Voltage Components
1. Front drive unit (if equipped)
2. A/C compressor
3. Battery coolant heater
4. Front junction box
5. High voltage cabling
6. Rapid splitter
7. Charger
8. DC-DC converter
9. Cabin heater
10. High voltage battery
11. Charge port
12. Rear drive unit
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High Voltage Battery Pack
Model S is equipped with a floor-mounted 400V lithium-ion high voltage battery. Never breach
the high voltage battery when lifting from under the vehicle. When using rescue tools, pay
special attention to ensure that you do not breach the floor pan. Refer to Chapter 2
Immobilization / Stabilization / Lifting for instructions on how to properly lift the vehicle.
Pushing on the Floor Pan
The high voltage battery is located below the floor pan. Never push on the floor pan itself
inside of Model S. Doing so can breach the high voltage battery or damage the high voltage
cables, which can cause serious injury or death. At no time should the high voltage battery
pack be compromised with rescue tools.
Model S Emergency Response Guide
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High Voltage Power Cable / Component
High voltage cables are shown in orange. There are high voltage cables that run through the
door sill extrusion providing protection to the cables. Do not compromise these high voltage
cables with rescue tools. At no time should any high voltage cables be compromised with
rescue tools. The assumption should be made that at all times there may be high voltage
present in the Orange High Voltage Cables.
Drive Units
The rear drive unit is located between the rear wheels, and the front drive unit (if equipped) is
located between the front wheels. The drive inverter is located within the drive unit. The drive
units convert direct current (DC) from the high voltage battery into 3-phase alternating current
(AC) that the drive units use to power the wheels.
1. Front Drive Unit
2. DC-DC within the battery enclosure
3. Rear Drive Unit
Model S Emergency Response Guide
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DC-DC Converter and Front Junction Box
High voltage is present at the DC-DC converter and front junction box, as outlined in red. The
DC-DC converter transforms the high voltage from the high voltage battery to low voltage
to charge the Model S 12V battery. The front junction box provides high voltage to various
components, such as the battery heater, air conditioning compressor, and cabin heater. Use
caution when cutting in this area during a dash lift and dash roll procedure. Use work-around
techniques, if necessary.
Charger
Model S has one charger located under the rear seats. This charger converts alternating current
(AC) from a charging station to direct current (DC) for charging the high voltage battery. The
high voltage junction box, integrated into the charger, routes any surplus energy from
regenerative braking back to the high voltage battery.
Model S Emergency Response Guide
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6. In case of fire
Firefighting
DO NOT SUBMERGE VEHICLE TO
EXTINGUISH/COOL BATTERY FIRE
POSSIBLE BATTERY RE-IGNITION!
MONITOR HV BATTERY TEMPERATURE
FOR AT LEAST 24 HOURS
USE LARGE AMOUNTS OF WATER
USE WATER TO FIGHT A HIGH VOLTAGE BATTERY FIRE. If the battery catches
fire, is exposed to high heat, or is generating heat or gases, use large amounts of
water to cool the battery. It can take between approximately 3,000- 8,000 gallons
(11,356- 30,283 liters) of water, applied directly to the battery, to fully extinguish
and cool down a battery fire; always establish or request additional water supply
early. If water is not immediately available, use CO2, dry chemicals, or another
typical fire-extinguishing agent to fight the fire until water is available.
NOTE: Tesla does not recommend the use of foam on electric vehicles.
Apply water directly to the battery. If safety permits, lift or tilt the vehicle for more direct
access to the battery (see chapter 2). Water may be applied from a safe distance ONLY if a
natural opening (such as a vent or opening from a collision) already exists. Do not open the
battery for the purpose of cooling it.
Tesla does not recommend placing the vehicle in a large container full of water. The use
of a Thermal Imagery Camera or Infrared (TIC or IR) is recommended to monitor battery
temperatures during the cooling process. Continue to use water until the battery has reached
ambient temperatures or below, indicated by the thermal imagery camera. When utilizing a
thermal imaging camera, allow enough time, once the application of water has stopped, to allow
for heat within the battery to transfer to the battery enclosure.
Extinguish small fires that do not involve the high voltage battery using typical vehicle
firefighting procedures.
During fire extinguishing, do not make contact with any high voltage components. Always use
insulated tools for fire extinguishing.
Heat and flames can compromise airbag inflators, stored gas inflation cylinders,
gas struts, and other components which can result in unexpected excessive heat,
which can cause inflation cylinder explosion. Perform an adequate knock down
before entering a hot zone.
Model S Emergency Response Guide
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Battery fires can take up to 24 hours to fully cool. After suppression and smoke has
visibly subsided, a thermal imaging camera can be used to actively measure the
temperature of the high voltage battery and monitor the trend of heating or
cooling. There must be no fire, smoke, audible popping/hissing, or heating present in the high
voltage battery for at least 45 minutes before the vehicle can be released to second responders
(such as law enforcement, vehicle transporters, etc.). The battery must be completely cooled
before releasing the vehicle to second responders or otherwise leaving the incident.
Always advise second responders that there is a risk of battery re-ignition. Second responders
should be advised to position the vehicle to drain excess water out of the vehicle by tilting or
repositioning it. This operation can assist in mitigating possible re-ignition. Due to potential
re-ignition, a Model S that has been involved in a submersion, fire, or a collision that has
compromised the high voltage battery should be stored in an open area at least 50 feet (15 m)
from any exposure.
WARNING
During all firefighting activities, consider the vehicle energized. Always
wear full PPE including a Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA).
High-Voltage Battery — Fire Damage
Similar to conventional and other electric and hybrid vehicles, a burning battery
releases super-heated gases and toxic vapors. This release may include volatile
organic compounds, hydrogen gas, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, soot,
particulates containing oxides of nickel, aluminum, lithium, copper, cobalt, and
hydrogen fluoride. Responders should always protect themselves with full PPE,
including SCBA, and take appropriate measures to protect civilians downwind
from the incident.
The high voltage battery consists of lithium-ion cells. If damaged, only a small amount of fluid
can leak.
The high voltage battery and drive unit(s) are liquid cooled with a typical glycol-based
automotive coolant. If damaged, this blue coolant can leak out of the high voltage battery.
A damaged high voltage battery can create rapid heating of the battery cells. If you
notice smoke, steam, or audible popping or hissing coming from the high voltage
battery, assume that it is heated and take appropriate action as described above.
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7. In case of submersion
Treat a submerged Model S like any other submerged vehicle. The body of Model S does not
present a greater risk of shock because it is in water. However, handle any submerged vehicle
while wearing the appropriate PPE for water rescue. Remove the vehicle from the water and
continue with normal high voltage disabling.
Vehicles that have been submerged in water should be handled with greater caution due to
the potential risk of a high voltage electrical battery fire. First Responders should be prepared
to respond to a potential fire risk. Raise the front of the vehicle to allow water to drain out of
the vehicle and the high voltage battery pack. After the vehicle is removed from the water,
continue normal disabling procedures as outlined in Chapter 3.
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8. Towing / transportation / storage
The rear motor in the Model S can generate power when the wheels spin. Always transport
with all four tires o of the ground. Ensure that the tires are unable to spin at any time during
transport.
WARNING
NEVER TRANSPORT THE VEHICLE WITH THE TIRES IN A POSITION
WHERE THEY CAN SPIN. DOING SO CAN LEAD TO SIGNIFICANT DAMAGE AND
OVERHEATING. IN RARE CASES EXTREME OVERHEATING MAY CAUSE THE
SURROUNDING COMPONENTS TO IGNITE.
WARNING
POSSIBLE BATTERY RE-IGNITION! AFTER A FIRE INCIDENT, STORE
OUTSIDE AT A SAFE DISTANCE (50 FT/ 15 M) FROM OTHER VEHICLES AND
STRUCTURES!
A roll-back truck or comparable transport vehicle is the recommended method of transport. The
vehicle can face either direction when using a flatbed. If the vehicle must be transported without
a roll-back truck, then wheel lifts and dollies must be used to ensure that all four wheels are o
of the ground. This method must not exceed the manufacturer speed rating of the dollies. With
this method, Tesla recommends the vehicle faces forward so that the front wheels are lifted and
the rear wheels are on dollies.
NOTE: The tires are allowed to rotate slowly (under 3 mph or 5 km/h) and for a very short
distance (less than 30 feet or 10 meters) only when Transport Mode is enabled while the
vehicle is being winched onto a flatbed truck or pulled out of a parking space for repositioning.
Exceeding these boundaries can lead to significant damage and overheating that is not covered
by the warranty.
NOTE: Enable Transport Mode on the vehicle’s touchscreen before winching the vehicle onto a
flatbed truck. If Transport Mode is not available or the touchscreen is not accessible, self-loading
dollies or tire skates must be used to load the vehicle into the approved transportation position.
Tesla is not responsible for any damage caused by or during transport of the vehicle, including
personal property damage or damage caused by using self-loading dollies or tire skates.
Model S Emergency Response Guide
26
WARNING
The vehicle is equipped with high voltage components that may be
compromised as a result of a collision. Before transporting, it is important to assume
these components are energized. Always follow high voltage safety precautions
(wearing personal protection equipment, etc.) until emergency response
professionals have evaluated the vehicle and can accurately confirm that all high
voltage systems are no longer energized. Failure to do so may result in serious injury.
Pushing the Vehicle
WARNING
The following instructions are intended to be used when only moving
Model S a very short distance to improve trac safety. Refer to the Owner’s Manual
on the touchscreen or the Roadside Assistance Guide in the glovebox for more
instructions on how to transport Model S. Damage caused by transporting the vehicle
is not covered by the warranty.
WARNING
Pushing Model S when it is not in Neutral or Transport Mode can result in
overheating the rear motor and potential risk of shock if electrical components are
exposed, even if the first responder loop has been cut.
In situations where there is minimal risk of fire or high voltage exposure (for example, the vehicle
does not accelerate after coming to a stop at an intersection) and 12V power is present, Model
S can be quickly pushed in order to clear the roadway. If a driver is present, simply shift Model S
into Neutral and then push the vehicle. If a driver is not present, Model S may automatically shift
into Park when it detects the driver leaving the vehicle (even if it has previously been shifted into
Neutral).
To keep Model S in Neutral (which disengages the parking brake and allows the vehicle to be
pushed) without a driver present, use the touchscreen to activate Transport Mode:
1. Ensure Model S is in Park.
2. Press and hold the brake pedal, then on the touchscreen touch Controls > Service > Towing.
3. Hold the Transport Mode button until it turns blue. Model S is now free-rolling and can
slowly be rolled (no faster than walking speed) or winched.
To cancel Transport Mode, shift Model S into Park.
NOTE: Model S must detect a key nearby and 12V power is required for Transport Mode to
activate.
NOTE: Transport Mode automatically cancels and the parking brake is applied if Model S is
rolled faster than 5 mph (8 km/h) or 12V power becomes low or absent.
NOTE: If Model S cannot detect the key (an authenticated smartphone or key), the Transport
Mode button is grayed out and Transport Mode cannot be enabled. Call Tesla Roadside
Assistance.
NOTE:
The touchscreen is unresponsive if Model X has no 12V power. Use the release cables
located in the front wheel arch liners to open the hood and jumpstart the vehicle’s auxiliary 12V
battery. Refer to the Roadside Assistance Guide in the glovebox (Touch Controls > Glovebox) or
call Tesla Roadside Assistance for instructions.
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9. Important additional information
This document contains important instructions and warnings that must be followed when
handling Model S in an emergency situation.
NOTE:
Images in this document show a Left-Hand Drive (LHD), North American vehicle. Unless
otherwise noted, Right-Hand Drive (RHD) vehicles are mirrored.
NOTE: Model S is equipped with knee airbags in North America and South Korea only.
WARNING
Always use appropriate rescue tools and always wear appropriate PPE.
Failure to follow these instructions can result in serious injury or death.
WARNING
Regardless of the disabling procedure you use, ALWAYS ASSUME THAT
ALL HIGH VOLTAGE COMPONENTS ARE ENERGIZED! Cutting, crushing, or touching
high voltage components can result in serious injury or death.
WARNING
After deactivation, the high voltage circuit requires 2 minutes to
de-energize.
WARNING
The RCM has a backup power supply with a discharge time of
approximately 10 seconds. Do not touch the RCM within 10 seconds of an airbag or
pre-tensioner deployment.
WARNING
Handling a submerged vehicle without appropriate PPE for water rescue
can result in serious injury or death.
WARNING
When fire is involved, consider the entire vehicle energized. Always wear
full PPE, including a SCBA.
WARNING
When cutting the first responder loop, double cut the loop to remove an
entire section. This eliminates the risk of the cut wires accidentally reconnecting.
WARNING
When using the high voltage shut down methods recommended by this
document, high voltage power is isolated to the battery. The high voltage battery is
always energized.
WARNING
Never transport the Model S with rear wheels on the ground. Doing so
can lead to significant damage and overheating. In rare cases extreme overheating
may cause the surrounding components to ignite.
Contact Us
First Responders and Second Responders with emergencies, call Tesla Roadside Assistance.
Refer to https://www.tesla.com/support/roadside-assistance for the applicable number.
The Model S Owner’s Manual and first responder information can be found at https://www.
tesla.com/firstresponders. First responders and training ocers who have questions, contact
firstrespondersafety@tesla.com.
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Airbags
10. Explanation pictograms used
Knee airbags are only installed in North
America and South Korea.
In some working environments, the Infrared
(IR) device is referred to as a Thermal Imaging
Camera (TIC).
Refers to the hood of a vehicle and follows with
detailed procedure for opening the hood both
with and without power available.
Refers to the liftgate of a vehicle and follows
with detailed procedure for opening the liftgate
with power.
Electricity warning
Flammable
Explosive
Corrosive substances present
Hazardous to Human Health
Acute Toxicity
Contains gases under pressure
Use water to extinguish
Model S Emergency Response Guide
29
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