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🇸🇬 Singapore /Disasters & Emergencies

China recalls 4.3 million vehicles over emergency door opening fears

From The Straits Times · () English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

Explainer Sources not specified New plan
  • China is recalling nearly 4.3 million vehicles due to concerns that electronic door handles may be difficult to open in emergencies.
  • The affected vehicles, including Tesla models, feature flush, electronically extending door handles popular on electric cars for their minimalist look and aerodynamic benefits.
  • Concerns exist that if cars lose power, passengers might be trapped, with some lawsuits alleging injuries or deaths after being stuck in a burning vehicle.

China is initiating its largest-ever vehicle recall, affecting approximately 4.3 million cars, over safety concerns related to electronic door handles. The recall, announced on August 21, involves Tesla and eight other automakers. These vehicles feature flush, electronically extending door handles, a design popularized by Tesla for its sleek appearance and aerodynamic advantages, particularly common on electric vehicles.

The core issue stems from the electronic mechanism of these handles. Unlike traditional mechanical systems, they rely on power to extend. If a vehicle loses power, especially in an emergency like a fire, there's a risk that occupants could be trapped inside. While some automakers offer intuitive manual overrides, critics like Michael Brooks, executive director of the Center for Auto Safety, point out that Tesla's manual release mechanisms can be difficult to access and lack clear signage.

If automakers do not have a clear manual release option for if a car loses power, it can be difficult for passengers or the driver to escape a vehicle in a life-threatening situation.

— Michael BrooksExecutive director of the Center for Auto Safety, explaining the safety concerns with electronic door handles.

This design has already led to controversy and legal action. Several lawsuits allege that Tesla's door handle design has resulted in injuries or deaths, with occupants trapped in burning vehicles. Some car owners have also reported difficulties in exiting the vehicle, particularly with children. Consultants JD Power noted in 2023 that these high-tech handles are becoming a problematic area, with many of the most problematic models being EVs.

While the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has not been notified of similar recalls in the US, and it remains unclear if Europe will see a recall, China has taken a proactive stance. The country has increased its oversight of the EV industry and announced in February that it would ban "hidden" door handles starting in 2027, becoming the first nation to implement such a regulation. Proposed legislation in the US also aims to address cars with similar handles.

The basic touch point of door handles is now a percolating problem area as manufacturers attempt to redesign them.

— JD PowerConsultants commenting on the evolving design of high-tech door handles in 2023.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by The Straits Times in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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