U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly, D-Ill., has introduced the SAFE Exit Act, which would require all vehicles with powered, flush-mounted door handles to include a mechanical backup.

Kelly criticized “Tesla-style” door handles that sit flush with the body. “That is not innovation—it’s a safety failure,” she said.

Debate over Tesla’s door handles has grown increasingly divisive. A turning point came after multiple teens died in a burning Tesla Cybertruck following a crash. Bystanders reportedly could not open the doors in time to rescue them.

What the SAFE Exit Act would require

The first provision of the Securing Accessible Functional Emergency (SAFE) Exit Act would require all vehicles to allow emergency responders to open doors after a crash, even if the vehicle loses power.

A second provision would require all door interiors to have an intuitive, mechanical release that works without electricity. Teslas include mechanical releases, but critics say they are not always obvious to passengers.

Many automakers have begun copying Tesla’s powered door handles in the name of EV aerodynamics. Kelly rejected that justification. “Elon Musk and his Tesla designs are not safe, nor efficient, and it has cost people their lives,” she said.

A press release announcing the bill stated, “Today, U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly (IL-02) introduced a bill addressing safety concerns with electric vehicle doors, including Tesla’s doors that have trapped people in their own cars. At least 15 people have died in car crashes due to Tesla doors not opening.”

China has already banned retractable door handles on electric vehicles beginning with the 2026 model year. Tesla must now engineer an alternative solution for vehicles sold in that market.