I have a 2006 Ford Freestyle with less than 15,000 miles. While driving North bound on interstate 75 between mile marker 101 and 128 the gas tank was punctured. What punctured the gas tank is unknown but there was a small area of "burring" and the tank cracked approx. 4 inches releasing fuel. The gas tank and liner failed by what appears to be a small impact. Consequence was release of fuel (full tank). Fortunately, there was no adverse outcome other than replacing the tank and fuel... the tank is being replaced. I will retain the damaged tank for further inspections. If the NHTSA would like to examine the tank please contact me and I will provide it to you. 1. normal highway driving/debris should not puncture the tank and create this unsafe condition. Had the fuel ignited then serious bodily harm or death could have occurred. 2. looking at the gas tank layout there is no protection from any type of debris e.g. skid plate, fabrication materials, etc. This makes the gas tank vulnerable to puncture potentially creating an unsafe condition. 3. the tank is non self-sealing to minimize the release of fuel. 4. there is an inadequate heat shield in place to prevent fuel from reaching the exhaust and igniting. 5. there is a potential workmanship issue with the gas tanks as they may be too brittle and unable to withstand the impact as tested. As there was no indication of a collision in which ruptured the gas tank. There was also only a very small area of burring that resulted in a significant crack to the fuel tank.

- Naples, FL, USA