Core Insights - Tesla is redesigning its controversial hidden door handles to integrate electronic and mechanical switches for improved safety during emergencies [2] - The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has initiated an investigation into Tesla's door handle issues, particularly focusing on incidents where children were trapped inside vehicles due to malfunctioning electronic door handles [2] - The investigation currently involves approximately 174,300 Tesla Model Y vehicles, with the potential for expansion as more reports are received [2] Company-Specific Developments - Franz von Holzhausen, Tesla's design director, acknowledged the safety concerns associated with the existing hidden door handles, which, while aesthetically pleasing and aerodynamically advantageous, pose significant safety risks in real-world scenarios [2] - NHTSA has received nine reports related to the door handle failures, including instances where owners were locked out of their vehicles and had to break windows to rescue trapped children [2] Industry Trends - The use of hidden door handles has become increasingly popular in the automotive industry due to their aesthetic and aerodynamic benefits, but they have also led to safety concerns, particularly in cold weather and power failure situations [3] - Regulatory bodies in China are also addressing these safety issues, with the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology seeking public input on mandatory national standards for automotive door handle safety, which will cover various aspects including emergency access and structural integrity [3]
17.43万辆SUV面临调查 特斯拉重新设计隐藏式门把手