Tesla's concealed door handle design, once a trendsetter in automotive aesthetics, is now facing scrutiny over safety concerns. While this sleek design undoubtedly elevates the vehicle's visual appeal and technological sophistication, while also minimizing wind resistance, it has been plagued by a host of issues in real-world applications. The handles are prone to freezing in cold weather, their operation is complex, and they exhibit a high failure rate. Most critically, in the event of a collision that cuts off power, the handles fail to deploy, posing a significant risk to passenger safety.

The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has initiated defect investigations into several Tesla models, focusing on problems such as malfunctioning door handles and incidents where children have become trapped. In China, the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology has released a draft for public consultation on the 'Safety Technical Requirements for Automobile Door Handles,' proposing a ban on fully concealed door handles and mandating the inclusion of mechanical redundancy systems. These systems would ensure that car doors can be manually opened in extreme circumstances, providing an essential safety backup.

Tesla, in response, is redesigning its door handles. The new design integrates electronic and mechanical components into a simple button, aiming to enhance the ease of escape during emergencies. As global regulations become increasingly stringent, concealed door handles may gradually fade from the market, prompting automakers to pivot towards safer design alternatives.