Congress Introduces SAFE Exit Act Targeting Tesla

The US House of Representatives has introduced legislation targeting electric vehicle door handle designs. The new bill, titled the 'Securing Accessible Functional Emergency (SAFE) Exit Act,' specifically names Tesla and Elon Musk in its text.

Lawmakers are pushing for mandatory manual door releases following claims of 15 deaths associated with electronic handle failures. The bill requires automakers to install easy-to-find manual releases to ensure passenger safety during power outages. This move represents a significant legislative challenge to Tesla's design philosophy.

The SAFE Exit Act was introduced in the US House of Representatives today. The legislation specifically targets the design of electric vehicle door handles. The bill's full name is the 'Securing Accessible Functional Emergency (SAFE) Exit Act.' It aims to force automakers to install easy-to-find manual releases.

These releases are intended for use in case of power failure. The introduction of this bill follows claims that 15 deaths have occurred due to issues with these handle designs. The legislation seeks to address safety concerns directly.

The bill explicitly calls out Tesla and its CEO, Elon Musk. Tesla is known for its flush-mounted door handles that often require electronic activation. These designs differ from traditional mechanical handles found on most vehicles.

Proponents of the bill argue that relying solely on electronic mechanisms poses a risk. If the vehicle's battery dies or electrical systems fail, passengers may become trapped. The legislation aims to prevent such scenarios by mandating accessible manual overrides.

The SAFE Exit Act sets forth specific requirements for vehicle manufacturers. The primary goal is to ensure passenger safety during electrical failures. The bill mandates the installation of manual releases that are easy to locate and operate.

Key provisions of the legislation include:

• Mandatory installation of manual door releases
• Requirement for easy-to-find placement
• Applicability to all automakers, with a focus on electric vehicles
• Response to claims of 15 fatalities

These measures are designed to standardize safety features across the industry.

The introduction of this bill could have wide-ranging effects on the automotive industry. While Tesla is the primary target, the legislation applies to all automakers. Manufacturers of electric vehicles will need to review their door handle designs.

Compliance with the SAFE Exit Act may require engineering changes. This could impact production timelines and costs for manufacturers. The bill represents a growing scrutiny of high-tech vehicle features that prioritize aesthetics over traditional safety mechanisms.