Understanding Rear-Hinged Car Doors

Rear-hinged car doors, also known as 'suicide doors,' are a unique feature of vehicles where the doors open backward towards the rear of the car. This design has a rich history in automotive engineering, particularly in premium and specialty vehicles. How do they work, and where did they get their name? Let's dive into the details.

The Origins and Naming of Suicide Doors

The term 'suicide doors' may seem unconventional, but it has an interesting origin. The name was first coined by an auto journalist who reviewed a car model that featured this style of door. The journalist jokingly remarked that the doors made it easier for passengers to commit suicide, a comment that stuck. Interestingly, the design is more about convenience and historical tradition than actual suicidal risk.

Why Call Them 'Suicide Doors'?

The term 'suicide doors' is quite misleading when it comes to safety. However, their design does present some risks. If the car is moving, opening a rear-hinged door can be perilous. The air pressure at higher speeds can cause the door to fly open, potentially dragging a passenger out of the vehicle. Thus, the name is a cautionary term rather than a true indicator of increased danger.

Historical Precedents: London Taxis

One notable historical example of rear-hinged doors is seen in London taxis. The design allowed passengers to talk to the driver as they climbed into the vehicle, eliminating the need to wait until they were fully inside. This convenience made the doors quite popular in the early-to-mid 20th century.

Technical Drawbacks and Challenges

While rear-hinged doors offer certain conveniences, they also present significant technical challenges. The main issues revolve around seating arrangements and door operation:

Seating Arrangements

Locating seats in a vehicle with rear-hinged doors can be problematic. Passengers might need to sit in tight spaces or position their seating in areas that are less conventional. This can affect the comfort and ease of access for passengers.

Door Operation and Safety

The biggest challenge with rear-hinged doors lies in their operation. Passengers must pull the door handle and then push it outward, a motion that becomes more complex when the vehicle is in motion. If the door is opened in a moving car, the air pressure can cause it to fly open, potentially dragging the passenger out of the vehicle. This sudden and unexpected ejection would indeed be dangerous, hence the name 'suicide doors.'

Conclusion and Modern Trends

Though rear-hinged doors seem like an innovative idea, they come with serious risks. Modern vehicles opt for safer alternatives such as conventional hinged doors. However, their unique design still holds a place in automotive history, particularly in premium and specialized models.

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While rear-hinged doors are not common in modern vehicles for safety reasons, they still offer a glimpse into the evolution of automotive engineering. For those interested in historical vehicles or specialty models, understanding the intricacies of these doors adds to the appreciation of automotive design.