Tesla’s flush door handles are one of the brand’s signature design elements. They sit sleekly against the body, helping with aerodynamics and giving the cars a futuristic look. But while they score points for style, they’ve often been criticized for being confusing in day-to-day use especially when safety is on the line.
Tesla’s design chief confirmed that the company is working on a new version of the handles. The update will combine the electronic and manual release mechanisms into a single spot, making them easier to use in emergencies.
“The decision is intended to make the handles more intuitive for occupants in a panic situation,” said Tesla’s design lead.
This announcement closely follows news from the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), which recently opened an investigation into about 174,000 Model Y vehicles from the 2021 model year. The agency is looking into reports that electronic door handles can become inoperative, preventing occupants from exiting the car.
Tesla vehicles already have manual releases inside, but regulators raised a concern: children in the back seat may not be able to reach or operate them, even if the driver knows they exist. That could pose a real-world risk for families who rely on the Model Y as their daily driver.
The NHTSA has received more than 140 complaints about Tesla doors since 2018, including reports of handles sticking, failing to open, or malfunctioning. The concerns have also led to recalls. In 2023, Tesla recalled over 120,000 Model S and Model X vehicles due to the possibility that doors could become unlocked and open during a crash.
International regulators are also weighing in. In China, officials have reportedly considered restrictions on fully concealed door handles, reflecting broader skepticism about the safety of hidden designs.
For Tesla owners, the redesign could bring much-needed clarity. By unifying the release mechanisms, the new handles promise to reduce confusion, speed up response times in emergencies, and make everyday use more straightforward. And for anyone who has had to point out the hidden lever to a puzzled passenger, it’s a practical improvement that goes beyond looks.
As Tesla balances design innovation with safety, owners can expect to see more changes like this. For now, it’s another reminder that sometimes, the simplest solutions are the most important.
Source: Reuters