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House Bill Targets Tesla-Style Door Handles With Mandated Manual Emergency Releases

The proposal would require clearly labeled manual releases on electric doors to ensure escape during power loss.

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A Tesla vehicle is seen after a crash in early 2023 in Austin. An Illinois lawmaker has proposed a measure that would require a national standard for electronic doors like those used by Tesla to ensure passengers can get out after a crash.
Tesla Model 3 sedans sit on display in 2018 outside a Tesla showroom in suburban Denver. A measure introduced by an Illinois congresswoman calls on Tesla and other automakers that use electronic doors to add manual door handles so passengers can get out after a crash.

Overview

  • Rep. Robin Kelly introduced the SAFE Exit Act to mandate an intuitive, clearly labeled mechanical latch for each door and a way for first responders to open vehicles when power is lost.
  • A House Energy & Commerce panel plans a Jan. 13 legislative hearing on the measure, which would direct NHTSA to finalize related safety rules within two years if enacted.
  • NHTSA is investigating Tesla Model Y exterior handles and Model 3 emergency releases after complaints that backup mechanisms are hidden or counterintuitive.
  • Bloomberg has reported at least 15 deaths in incidents where occupants or rescuers could not open Tesla doors after crashes and fires, and families have filed wrongful-death suits including a 2024 Baytown, Texas case.
  • Tesla has said it is working on redesigns and updated its website to state doors auto-unlock after serious collisions, as China proposes rules requiring mechanical emergency releases.