Flush door handles are the car industry's latest safety problem
14 days ago
- #door handle design
- #automotive safety
- #electric vehicles
- Nissan Leaf's new design includes retractable door handles for front doors to improve aerodynamics.
- Tesla's door handles fail during power loss, posing safety risks as occupants struggle to exit.
- Tesla uses IP-based electronic controls instead of conventional door locks, complicating emergency exits.
- Hyundai, Kia, and Chevy Equinox EV have motorized handles that can be operated mechanically without power.
- VW ID4 handles are less protruding but still traditional, offering a balance between aerodynamics and usability.
- Flush door handles should be operable when unpowered to ensure safety without compromising security.
- Tesla's mechanical door release is separate from the normal button, making it less intuitive in emergencies.
- There's a call to move away from skinny sidewalls in favor of more visible designs like whitewall tires.