China has banned hidden door handles on electric vehicles amid growing safety concerns. The country becomes the first to prohibit the design. Regulators acted as electric vehicles face increased scrutiny worldwide. Several deadly accidents raised alarm among authorities. Two fatal crashes in China involved electric cars made by Xiaomi. Investigators suspected power failures prevented passengers from opening the doors.
New Rules Require Mechanical Access
The regulations allow sales only for cars with mechanical door releases inside and outside. State media reported the full requirements. Authorities aim to guarantee access during accidents and power outages. Regulators seek to prevent passengers from being trapped inside vehicles.
The rules take effect on 1 January 2027. The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology issued 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 doors to remain operable in emergencies.
Interior Door Instructions Are 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 immediately. The rules prioritise clarity and simplicity in high-pressure situations.
Cars already approved and close to market entry will receive a two-year transition period. These models must update their designs within the grace period. Authorities want to avoid major disruption for manufacturers.
China’s New Energy Vehicle Market Adjusts
Hidden door handles remain common 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 figures.
Although the rules apply only in China, global effects appear likely. China holds a dominant position in the automotive industry. Regulatory changes there often shape vehicle design standards worldwide.
Global Regulators Monitor Safety Risks
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.
