The new design enables the driver's airbag to deploy from the top of the steering wheel, namely through the upper wheel rim and towards the occupant, instead of from the centre hub as at present.

The defect is due to the cushion shape and inflation angle of the original airbag design, which allows the airbag to deploy between the driver's arm and torso in some circumstances, the NHTSA said.

According to VinFast, the center airbag could inflate between the ... will have their original airbags replaced with the new design at no charge to affected customers. Notification letters will ...