Tesla has made flush or hidden door handles commonplace, with many manufacturers ditching traditional door handles in favor of them. However, their design has proven problematic, prompting safety concerns. Some emergency responders and bystanders have been unable to free people trapped in their cars, and some occupants have been unable to free themselves. The problem is twofold: Some designs rely on an electronic latch release that doesn’t work if the car loses power. Others are mostly mechanical, but require power to get the handle to pop out. In either case, the emergency release inside the car is often separate from the customary button or mechanism.
China bans hidden handles, forces massive recall
China will prohibit retractable and hidden door handles on new cars beginning January 1, 2027. The decision follows a recall of nearly four million vehicles already in use, with Tesla accounting for nearly three million of those—the largest portion of affected models. Eight other automakers are involved, including BAIC BluePark, Chery, Geely, Leapmotor, Xiaomi, and XPeng.
Fixes differ by brand. Some are adding clearer warning labels near emergency releases. Others are releasing software updates to improve performance. Tesla, for instance, is rolling out an update that automatically lowers windows if a collision occurs, while also making internal emergency handles more visible.
The recall affects Tesla’s Model 3, Model S, Model Y, and Model X. The automaker has recognized the issue, stating last year it was redesigning door handles to combine electronic and manual release mechanisms in one place. This adjustment aims to reduce confusion during emergencies, when occupants might not know where to find a backup release.
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U.S. regulators consider new rules
In the U.S., the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has not issued a recall but is examining the problem. In July, the agency rejected a petition to investigate the 2022 Tesla Model 3’s mechanical door release but began a separate review of potential regulations for emergency access systems. The process may take years, leaving automakers uncertain about future requirements.
If China’s ban remains in place, manufacturers might stop using hidden handles altogether rather than redesign them for different markets. The change could speed up if other countries adopt similar rules, pushing automakers back toward traditional door designs. For now, drivers of recalled vehicles will receive updates or labels, though the long-term future of the feature is unclear.
Tesla’s influence in the electric vehicle market means its decisions often shape industry trends. If the company abandons hidden handles, others may follow—even without regulatory pressure. Until then, drivers will need to learn where their car’s emergency release is located.
