Tesla Model S upgraded to prevent fires

Will now come with a a titanium underbody shield and aluminum deflector plates

Following several high-profile fires, Tesla has equipped the Model S with a titanium underbody shield and aluminum deflector plates.

The company started equipping cars with the additional safety features on March 6th and they should help to prevent road debris from striking the battery and causing a fire.  All new Model S' will be equipped with the safety features but current owners can also receive the upgrades upon request.

In a statement, Tesla CEO Elon Musk said "We felt it was important to bring this risk down to virtually zero to give Model S owners complete peace of mind." He went on to say "It is important to note that there have been no fire injuries (or serious, permanent injuries of any kind) in a Tesla at all. The odds of fire in a Model S, at roughly 1 in 8,000 vehicles, are five times lower than those of an average gasoline car and, when a fire does occur, the actual combustion potential is comparatively small."

Source: Tesla Motors