Are Retractable Car Door Handles a Safety Risk?

In recent years, the automotive world has leaned heavily into sleek, modern designs, and retractable door handles have become a signature feature on many high end electric vehicles. These handles don’t just add visual flair; they also help enhance the vehicle’s aerodynamics. But behind the futuristic look lies a growing concern: could these innovative handles actually become a liability in serious accidents?

Retractable Handles and Growing Concerns

Tesla was the first to introduce retractable door handles with the debut of the Model S, and the idea quickly gained traction across the industry. Today, vehicles like the Range Rover Velar and the latest Mercedes S-Class (W223) come equipped with either manually folding handles or those that extend automatically using electric motors when the car is unlocked or senses the driver’s approach.

However, according to Germany’s ADAC, the largest automobile club in Europe, the trouble begins when those electric handles fail during a crash. If the car loses power due to a severe impact, the handles may remain hidden within the door frame, preventing rescue teams from accessing the cabin and putting passengers at risk of being trapped inside.

Safety Tests Reveal Potential Challenges

Crash tests conducted by organizations such as Euro NCAP already evaluate the ease of door opening after collisions. These tests ensure doors can be opened from the outside, whether through automatic unlocking or manual intervention. So far, Euro NCAP has not reported major failures with retractable door handles during these evaluations.

But ADAC warns of another issue: body deformation. In the aftermath of a collision, if the door's metal structure becomes severely bent, even a functional handle might become unusable. This adds a critical layer of risk, especially in situations where every second counts.

To counter this potential danger, ADAC suggests including a basic emergency glass breaking hammer as part of the car’s safety equipment. If stored in an easily accessible location, this tool could allow occupants to escape quickly, assuming the windows aren’t laminated, double glazed, or acoustically insulated, which is increasingly common in vehicles tailored for hot climates like those in the Gulf region.

Prioritizing Safety or Streamlined Design?

There’s no denying the elegance and technological edge retractable door handles bring to modern cars. But relying solely on electronics for basic safety features raises legitimate concerns. Manufacturers may need to rethink how to blend aesthetics with reliability in critical moments.

As drivers in the UAE and Saudi Arabia place growing emphasis on both luxury and safety, it’s essential for automakers to ensure their vehicles include accessible emergency systems. In the end, achieving a balance between cutting edge design and life saving functionality is what defines a truly refined driving experience.