China has banned hidden door handles on electric vehicles amid growing safety concerns. The move makes China the first country to prohibit the design. Regulators acted as electric vehicles face mounting scrutiny from safety watchdogs worldwide. Several deadly incidents intensified pressure on authorities. Two fatal crashes in China involved electric cars produced by Xiaomi. Investigators suspected power failures prevented passengers from opening the doors.
New Rules Focus on Emergency Escape
The new regulations allow sales only for cars with mechanical door releases inside and outside. State media reported the scope of the measures. Authorities want to guarantee access during crashes and power outages. Regulators aim to reduce the risk of occupants becoming trapped inside vehicles.
The rules will take effect on 1 January 2027. The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology released the technical standards. Every passenger door except the boot must include a recessed handle area. The space must measure at least 6cm by 2cm by 2.5cm. Officials want to ensure quick door access in emergencies.
Interior Door Labels Become Mandatory
Inside each vehicle, visible signs must show how to open the doors. These signs must measure at least 1cm by 0.7cm. Regulators want passengers to understand door operation instantly. The rules prioritise clarity during high-stress situations.
Cars already approved and nearing market entry will receive a grace period. These models will get two additional years to update their designs. Authorities want to limit disruption to ongoing production plans.
New Energy Vehicle Market Faces Pressure
Hidden door handles remain widespread in China’s new energy vehicle market. The segment includes electric cars, hybrids, and fuel cell vehicles. Around 60% of the top 100 best-selling models use hidden handles. Government-controlled newspaper China Daily cited the data.
Although the rules apply only to China, global effects appear likely. China holds a dominant role in the global automotive industry. Regulatory changes there often influence vehicle design worldwide.
International Safety Concerns Grow
Safety regulators in the United States already investigate electric door handles used by Tesla. European authorities also consider similar measures. Officials focus on failures that prevent doors from opening.
In November, the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration opened an investigation. The probe followed reports of electric-powered door handles suddenly failing. The agency received nine complaints involving 2021 Model Y vehicles. In four cases, owners broke windows to free trapped passengers.
