Imagine being trapped in your car after an accident, unable to open the doors because the handles are hidden and rely on power that’s now gone. This chilling scenario has sparked a major shift in the automotive world, starting with China’s recent ban on Tesla-style door handles—a move that’s likely to ripple all the way to Australia. But here’s where it gets controversial: while these sleek, flush-mounted handles are a hallmark of modern electric vehicles (EVs), their safety in emergencies has come under intense scrutiny. Could this design trend, championed by brands like Tesla and Kia, be more about aesthetics than practicality? And this is the part most people miss: even as manufacturers tout aerodynamic efficiency, the lack of a reliable manual override could turn a minor accident into a life-threatening situation.
The debate comes at a pivotal moment for the EV industry, especially in China, where battery-powered cars dominated over half of vehicle sales last year. However, a series of high-profile accidents has exposed a critical flaw. In one tragic incident, bystanders were unable to rescue a driver from a burning Xiaomi SU7 Ultra sedan because the doors wouldn’t open. Similarly, emergency responders were filmed smashing windows to save victims in a 2024 crash involving an Aito SUV with retractable handles. These incidents have forced regulators to act, with China’s industry ministry now mandating that external door handles must be clearly visible and functional, even without power. Interior handles must also be easily identifiable, with rules taking effect for new sales starting January 2027.
But is this enough? While China leads the charge, the U.S. has launched its own investigation into Tesla’s Model 3 over similar concerns, prompting the company to redesign its door mechanisms. Meanwhile, Australia’s Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP) has long emphasized the importance of reliable door opening in crashes, though no laws currently mandate manual overrides. Carla Hoorweg, ANCAP’s chief executive, argues that regulation is crucial to prevent unintended safety consequences from design choices. “We wouldn’t want to see a situation where a sleek design compromises someone’s ability to escape a vehicle,” she said.
The ripple effects of China’s ban are already being felt globally. Peter Jones of the Motor Trades Association of Australia notes that given China’s massive vehicle production and export footprint, these design changes could soon become standard worldwide, including in Australia. “Easily accessible handles could significantly improve safety outcomes,” he added. Yet, not everyone is convinced. Jo Oddie of the Australian Electric Vehicle Association points out that safety concerns should extend beyond hidden handles, as even traditional cars often rely on electronic locking systems. “Retractable handles were a novelty that’s worn off quickly,” Oddie said. “We all want to be able to open our doors easily in an emergency.”
But what about those who love these futuristic handles? Take Callan Root, a Tesla Model Y owner who admits the handles are ‘a bit tricky to learn, especially for older people,’ but praises their convenience. “From the inside, it’s great to drive, and opening doors with a button is fantastic,” he said. Root acknowledges the potential risks but believes Tesla’s other safety features outweigh the concerns. “If the handles went back to normal, the car would feel dated,” he added.
As the automotive world grapples with this issue, one question remains: Should style and innovation ever come at the expense of safety? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—do you think hidden door handles are a step too far, or is this just growing pains for the EV revolution?
