Chinese airbags killed five people. An investigation has been launched in the US (1 photo)
The NHTSA has launched an investigation into the discovery of deadly airbags on the market. They are suspected of containing hazardous chemicals that cause them to inflate uncontrollably when deployed, ejecting fragments of the inflator into the cabin along with the airbag itself. 
Seven similar incidents have already been reported, five of which were fatal. The most recent occurred in July 2025, when a 22-year-old woman was involved in a crash at 30 mph (48 km/h) while driving a Chevrolet Malibu. Fragments from the ruptured inflator struck her in the neck.
All dangerous airbags, according to The Wall Street Journal, are linked to a single manufacturer: Detiannuo Safety Technology, also known as DTN Airbags, based in Jilin Province. The company allegedly produces counterfeit airbags that look like those from renowned global brands.
The counterfeit airbags are imported to the United States and used by small auto repair shops, allegedly attracted by the low price of the parts. US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy has already issued a warning to both importers and mechanics about the unacceptability of installing such components and the potential consequences.
It is noted that the exact number of DTN airbags installed in vehicles in the United States is currently unknown.
