Tesla Door Design Is Targeted by New US Automotive Safety Bill

A US lawmaker is proposing legislation that would require manual door releases in new cars, a move to address growing safety concerns with the type of electrically powered handles popularized by Tesla Inc.

The measure from Representative Robin Kelly, an Illinois Democrat, calls for automobiles with electric door systems to include a clearly labeled mechanical latch that is “intuitive to use and readily accessible for the occupant.” It would also require means for first responders to gain access to vehicles when power is lost.

The bill introduced late Tuesday is the first indication that safety risks posed by electrically ...