Cause Of Takata Air Bag Explosions Released

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- Scientists, hired by the auto-industry, say they have figured out what caused Takata air bags to suddenly explode.

The Independent Testing Coalition says design issues, moisture, high humidity, heat and the use of a controversial propellant called ammonium nitrate are all factors. This is consistent with Takata's findings.

More than 30 million cars have been recalled worldwide to fix the problem.

The faulty air bags are blamed for at least ten deaths and 139 injuries, including a Minnesota woman who was blinded in a crash.

This report could force U.S. Safety Regulators to expand the recall to include an additional 70 to 90 million inflators.