Home / Technology / EV Doors Under Fire: New Bill Demands Manual Releases
EV Doors Under Fire: New Bill Demands Manual Releases
7 Jan
Summary
- Legislation proposes requiring manual door releases in new electric vehicles.
- The bill addresses safety concerns with power-dependent electric door handles.
- First responders need easier access to vehicles when power is lost.
Legislation is being prepared that would require new electric vehicles to include manual door releases, addressing safety concerns surrounding power-dependent door systems. Representative Robin Kelly has drafted the Securing Accessible Functional Emergency Exit Act, or SAFE Exit Act, which mandates that electric door systems have an intuitive and accessible mechanical latch. This measure also seeks to ensure first responders can gain entry to vehicles when power is compromised.
The draft bill is slated for discussion in a House Energy & Commerce committee hearing on January 13. This proposed legislation arises from a series of incidents where individuals were unable to escape vehicles, leading to severe injuries or fatalities. The scrutiny on electric vehicle doors has intensified following reports on unexpected power loss issues, especially after collisions.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration previously launched an investigation into Tesla Model Y door issues and is now probing emergency releases in Model 3 vehicles due to concerns about their accessibility during emergencies. If passed into law, the proposed legislation would necessitate rule changes within a two-year timeframe.
