Elon Musk Demanded Tesla’s Electric Doors Despite Safety Worries

As regulators on three continents scrutinize the safety of electrically powered car doors out of concern some designs can fail, locking out owners or trapping occupants inside, Tesla Inc. is confronting the consequences of decisions made almost a decade ago.

In early 2016, Tesla’s design and engineering teams were racing to finalize the Model 3, the mass-market sedan that would help turn the niche seller of high-end electric cars into the world’s most valuable automaker. But the development was dogged by questions over how the doors should be opened.

Elon Musk during the launch event for Tesla’s first mass market vehicle, the Model 3.

Source: Photo Illustration: 731; Source: Getty Images

Over a series of meetings in Palo Alto, California, and ...