
Push the wider part of the door handle with your thumb. The handle rotates toward the user, and pulling the handle or the edge of the door will open the door. After opening, the handle will automatically retract. Tesla uses hidden door handles, which can be popped out by simply pressing the handle. The hidden door handles used by Tesla serve an aesthetic purpose. Depending on the model, the way Tesla door handles open may vary. Since they are hidden door handles, most of them are sensor-activated. In extremely cold conditions, a thin layer of ice may form on the car body, which can hinder the opening of the door handle. This is one of the drawbacks of hidden door handles.

When I first drove the Model 3, I also found its door opening mechanism quite unique, but later discovered there are several methods. The simplest is to approach the door with your phone, press the thicker end of the door handle, and it automatically pops open—just pull the door. If using the physical card key, you need to swipe it near the B-pillar camera until you hear the unlocking sound before opening. Opening from inside is even easier: each door has an electronic button on the inner side—press it, and the door pops open directly. In case of power failure or malfunction, there's a mechanical lever hidden under the driver's side door panel; a firm pull will open the door in emergencies. Tesla's design is very smart: using Bluetooth with your phone is the most convenient for daily use—no need to fumble for keys, even in the rain.

Once my phone ran out of battery and I almost couldn't get into the car, so I specifically researched the Model 3's door opening methods. Normally, just bring your phone close to the door sensor area, and the car handle will automatically sense it. For the card key, swipe it vertically against the B-pillar camera area and wait two seconds. The interior design is more thoughtful—there's an emergency pull handle on the driver's door panel, and the rear door buttons are placed high to prevent accidental child activation. Backup options include using the mobile app to unlock remotely or calling Tesla's 400 hotline for assistance. Remember to charge the card key battery regularly to avoid temporary failure. These hidden features aren't highlighted in the manual, but you'll get familiar with them after a few tries.

The Model 3's door-opening design revolutionizes traditional fuel vehicle concepts. It replaces mechanical door handles with electric buttons, featuring hidden exterior handles that require a press to activate. The standout feature is the phone key functionality—simply keep Bluetooth on, and the door handles automatically sense your approach. This keyless experience is particularly captivating when your hands are full after shopping; just nudge the handle with your elbow to unlock. However, be mindful of extreme scenarios: during a complete power loss, rely on the red mechanical pull under the driver's seat, and the emergency trunk release is located beneath the Tesla logo. This blend of technology and safety is quintessentially Tesla.


