Gasgoo Munich-Recently reported that Tang Jing, head of product line at Li Auto, addressed the core logic behind door handle design, clarifying that exposed mechanical latches are not a design redundancy. Rather, they represent a critical trade-off for extreme safety scenarios, distinguishing between two divergent philosophies in automotive safety design.
Tang’s argument zeroes in on the industry’s key design rift: the physical form of a mechanical handle ultimately depends on whether the vehicle is positioned for "emergency escape" or merely "routine backup."
Image Source: Li Auto
Tang emphasized that Li Auto’s prominently exposed mechanical handles are designed for fatal emergencies, such as vehicle collisions or total power loss. In these extreme, sudden situations, occupants are often overwhelmed by tension and panic, unable to think calmly or fumble with equipment. Consequently, the escape structure must be intuitive and instinctive—visible at a glance and reachable by touch. It should require no learning curve, much like a car’s fire extinguisher. By prioritizing survival rates in extreme scenarios, the design serves as a genuine safety net.
Conversely, the industry’s mainstream hidden mechanical handles are positioned merely as routine backup. They are intended for predictable, non-fatal scenarios, such as occasional electronic lock failures or temporary glitches. With no immediate pressure to escape, users have ample time to locate and operate the backup mechanism. This allows automakers to prioritize aesthetics, effectively concealing the mechanical latch.
In Tang’s view, neither design is inherently superior; the core difference lies in the automaker’s product philosophy. Li Auto sticks with the exposed design to prioritize user safety, ensuring sufficient redundancy for extreme accidents. Hidden designs, meanwhile, prioritize the seamless integration of the vehicle's exterior. Different positions suit different product orientations, so there is no need for sweeping generalizations or controversy.
