Group 1 - A US lawmaker is proposing the SAFE Exit Act, which would mandate manual door releases in new cars to enhance safety amid concerns over electrically powered door handles, particularly those used by Tesla [1][3][5] - The proposed legislation requires that electric door systems include a clearly labeled mechanical latch that is intuitive and accessible for occupants, as well as a means for first responders to access vehicles when power is lost [2][5] - The bill has emerged in response to safety risks highlighted by incidents where individuals were trapped in vehicles due to power loss, with at least 15 deaths reported in crashes involving Tesla vehicles [3][4] Group 2 - The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has initiated investigations into potential defects in Tesla's door systems, particularly in Model Y SUVs and Model 3 vehicles, following claims that emergency releases are not intuitive [6] - In China, transport authorities are proposing new safety standards for electrically powered door handles, which have been linked to fatal crashes involving electric vehicles, including those made by Xiaomi Corp [6] - Tesla has updated its website to indicate that after a serious collision, hazard lights will activate and doors will automatically unlock for emergency access, reflecting an effort to address safety concerns [7]

Core Insights - Tesla owners are facing significant issues with malfunctioning electronic door handles, leading to safety concerns and a shift in consumer preferences towards traditional vehicles [1][2][3] Group 1: Consumer Experiences - A Tesla owner experienced trauma when her child became trapped inside the vehicle due to a power failure affecting the doors, prompting her to switch to a Honda CR-V [1] - Many Tesla owners are now purchasing emergency tools like glass breakers and are actively seeking information on how to operate manual door releases [2][12] - A significant number of consumers have signed a petition urging automakers to address the issues with electronic doors, highlighting widespread concern [2] Group 2: Safety Investigations - The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has opened a safety investigation into potential defects in the door mechanisms of certain Tesla models, particularly the Model Y [3][11] - A Bloomberg investigation revealed over 140 consumer complaints related to Tesla door handles malfunctioning, especially after accidents [3][11] - Current US auto safety regulations do not mandate a manual backup for electronic door handles, raising questions about safety standards [10] Group 3: Industry Response - Tesla's chief designer acknowledged the need for redesigning the door mechanism and improving consumer awareness regarding manual releases [5][6] - The company is facing pressure to enhance safety features and provide better guidance to consumers about operating their vehicles [4][5][8] - The NHTSA has indicated that inadequate access to vehicle exits could be classified as a safety defect, potentially leading to recalls [11] Group 4: Community Initiatives - Some Tesla owners are taking the initiative to educate others about the manual release mechanisms through social media platforms, indicating a grassroots effort to enhance safety awareness [12][13] - Owners are modifying their vehicles with additional accessories to make manual releases more accessible, reflecting a proactive approach to safety [14]