China Bans Tesla’s Retractable Door Handles Over Safety Concerns
China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology has announced a ban on retractable door handles, like those popularized by Tesla, in new cars sold in the country, due to safety risks that could leave occupants trapped during accidents or power failures. This follows a similar investigation by U.S. authorities regarding Tesla’s door handle design.
According to reports, starting in January 2027, new regulations will require all vehicles weighing under 3.5 tonnes to include both internal and external door handles equipped with mechanical emergency releases. The rationale is that doors need to be operable manually, even if a crash leads to battery or electrical system failure. While many electric vehicles already have an emergency release inside, users often have difficulty locating or using it effectively in emergencies, sometimes rendering it completely ineffective.
The issue isn’t unique to China. Recently, Rivian owners have expressed frustration online, calling for more accessible emergency exit handles after facing problems during power outages. Complaints from drivers of various brands have surfaced regarding cold-weather failures, delays in deploying the handles, and finger entrapment incidents.
Reports indicate that some Tesla owners are opting to buy escape tools to ensure they can exit their vehicles if the door handles malfunction. Many have shared similar stories on social media, raising alarm about the safety risks tied to Tesla’s innovative yet seemingly unreliable door mechanisms. Some owners report that automatic door handles fail to extend, while others encounter issues with manual emergency releases.
In light of these safety concerns, many Tesla owners are investing in tools specifically designed to break windows in emergencies. These tools come in several forms, such as hammers, spring-loaded punches, and specialized seatbelt cutters, and are quickly becoming popular within the Tesla community.
The new regulations affect various brands, including BYD and Mercedes-Benz, but the spotlight is on Tesla. All its models feature a flush, electronically actuated design that integrates with the car’s body. Unfortunately, there have been at least 15 fatalities in crashes where electric doors failed to open, and records show instances where Model Y occupants had to break windows to escape when the door system malfunctioned.
Tesla’s minimalist design has received significant attention, yet it may have to adjust to meet evolving safety standards as both U.S. and international regulators scrutinize its current approach. Given that China is the largest EV market, other manufacturers with similar designs might need to rethink their strategies if they hope to maintain their market presence. Tesla is reportedly considering redesigning its signature door handles.
This ban on retractable door handles seems to echo the fate of pop-up headlights, which were once celebrated but ultimately discarded due to safety concerns. What was once seen as a clever design feature is now more of a safety liability in the EV landscape.
