Pop-Out Handles Banned: Deadly Car Tech Under Fire

Modern car technology, including hidden door handles and touchscreen dashboards, is facing scrutiny from safety experts who warn of potentially fatal consequences. Authorities in China have banned pop-out door handles, citing concerns that these electronic mechanisms can trap passengers in the event of a crash, particularly if the car's wiring is compromised. Tesla's door handles are under investigation in the U.S. for similar reasons.

Touchscreen interfaces are also a major concern. Unlike physical buttons, they require drivers to divert visual attention from the road for extended periods, significantly increasing reaction times. Studies indicate this distraction can be more dangerous than texting or using a mobile phone while driving. Experts are advocating for a return to intuitive physical controls for essential functions like climate and lighting.

Regulators in Europe and safety assessment programs in Australia and New Zealand are also pushing for the reintroduction of physical buttons. Euro NCAP will require separate physical controls for essential features to award a five-star safety rating. This shift reflects a growing consensus that simpler, more tactile controls enhance driving safety and reduce the risk of distraction-related accidents.