Recently, the China ban on pop-out door handles, Tesla’s ongoing struggles in Europe, and an NHTSA investigation into F-150 transmission problems. Hyundai also plans to permanently closing its former Russian plant.
China says no to hidden car door handles
Automakers have recently favored flush-mounted door handles, which have frustrated rideshare passengers worldwide. Now, China is pushing back by banning electronically-actuated handles on electric vehicles.
Since Tesla’s electrically actuated handles have reportedly led to at least 15 deaths, it’s wise for China to impose this ban. Manufacturers can still make flush-mounted handles with a mechanical linkage, but hopefully, they won’t choose to do so. Were regular handles really that bad?
Even Norway is giving up on Tesla
Tesla’s sales have plummeted since CEO Elon Musk decided to openly support far-right policies and politicians worldwide. However, the company had one remaining strong market in Europe: Norway. Now, January’s numbers show that even Norwegians are moving away from Tesla.
Of course, January is just one month, and it’s typically too cold for people to visit car dealer lots in Norway. Still, an 88% drop in sales is significant; even if it aligns with one of Musk’s favorite numbers, it doesn’t bode well for the company’s future.
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