> I think the better solution would be a two-stage handle that initially sends an electrical signal and then engages the mechanical latch if you continue pulling.

This is how Mercedes handles work, for what it's worth. A motor pushes them out or retracts them, but they're held in only with a spring, so you can always physically force them out, at which point pulling on them directly pulls on the release lever.

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PhotonHunter 9 hours ago | parent | next [-]

If I were designing these newer style aerodynamic handles, I think it would be done such that the handles default to the open graspable state. Retract them when the car is in motion for aerodynamics (is it really that much of a benefit?) such that when the circuit is de-energized in a crash, the handles return to the default open graspable state.

	▲	amluto 7 hours ago \| parent [-]
		At least the Tesla handles I’m familiar with are entirely electrical: if you grasp it and pull but the door and whatever ECU operates it is not energized, then nothing happens. There is nothing resembling a mechanical door lock.

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foxyv 9 hours ago | parent | prev | next [-]

My 1994 BMW was like this, you would start to pull the handle and the window would come down a little to release the seal. Then you would pull the rest of the way to pop the latch. You couldn't pull too fast or you would risk damaging the weather seal. It kind of sucked.

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lowmagnet 7 hours ago | parent | next [-]

My E46 had frameless windows and it was similar, as you pulled the handle it would lower the window slightly, and after closing, it would scooch up a bit.

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bayindirh 6 hours ago | parent | prev [-]

> It kind of sucked.

Literally or proverbially? Either way it's a great way to weather the problem the fun way.

	▲	foxyv 5 hours ago \| parent [-]
		It was definitely WET fun.

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rkomorn 9 hours ago | parent | prev [-]

Same with the Minis my mom's been driving for like, 20 years.