Tesla EV Door Handle Safety Bill Targets Manual Emergency Releases

A new legislative proposal has been introduced in the US House of Representatives that directly addresses electric vehicle door handle safety, with Tesla EV door handle safety bill concerns at the center of the debate. The proposal focuses on ensuring that occupants can exit vehicles easily during emergencies, even when electrical systems fail, a topic gaining urgency as electronic door latches become more common across the automotive industry.
The bill, formally titled the SAFE Exit Act, seeks to mandate clearly identifiable manual door releases in electric vehicles. Modern EV designs, particularly those popularized by Tesla, often rely on electronic signals instead of traditional mechanical linkages to open doors. While this approach supports sleek styling and aerodynamic efficiency, it raises serious safety questions when power is lost during crashes or other critical incidents.
Tesla EV Door Handle Safety Bill and Electronic Latch Risks
Electronic door latches operate through sensors or buttons that activate an electric actuator. In normal conditions, this system works seamlessly. However, in high-impact collisions or power outages, doors may remain locked unless occupants locate and operate a mechanical backup, which is not always intuitive.
Key concerns highlighted by lawmakers include:

• Manual door releases that are hidden or poorly labeled

• Increased risk of occupants being trapped after severe crashes

• Delays for first responders attempting vehicle access

Although most Tesla vehicles include manual overrides, critics argue their placement and visibility are inconsistent, increasing confusion during emergencies.
Regulatory Push Led by Lawmakers and Safety Advocates
The legislation has been introduced by Robin Kelly, who has openly criticized Tesla’s door designs and the influence of Elon Musk on vehicle styling priorities. The proposal directs National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to establish enforceable standards covering performance and labeling for electric doors.
The bill is supported by Consumer Reports, which has consistently called for intuitive safety features that function under stress. In addition to interior manual releases, manufacturers would be required to provide external access solutions for emergency responders when vehicle power is unavailable.
Global Context and Industry Implications
This US initiative follows similar regulatory action recently finalized in China, where automakers have been instructed to improve emergency door access in electric vehicles. Tesla was reportedly informed in advance and has been developing compliance solutions, which could now be adapted for the US market if the bill is enacted.
As electric vehicle adoption accelerates, the Tesla EV door handle safety bill signals a broader regulatory shift. Design innovation is increasingly being measured against real-world safety outcomes, pushing automakers to balance aesthetics, technology, and occupant protection more carefully.