China has banned hidden door handles on electric vehicles over safety concerns. The move makes China the first country to outlaw the design. Regulators acted amid rising scrutiny of electric vehicle safety worldwide. Several deadly incidents raised alarm among authorities. Two fatal crashes in China involved electric cars produced by Xiaomi. Investigators suspected power failures stopped passengers from opening the doors.
Regulators Demand Reliable Emergency Access
The new regulations permit sales only for cars with mechanical door releases inside and outside. State media outlined the requirements in detail. Officials want to guarantee access during accidents and power failures. Regulators aim to reduce the risk of passengers 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. Authorities want to ensure quick access for occupants and rescuers.
Interior Signs Become Mandatory
Inside the vehicle, visible signs must explain how to open each door. These signs must measure at least 1cm by 0.7cm. Regulators want passengers to understand door operation instantly. The rules focus on clarity during stressful emergencies.
Cars already approved and nearing market entry will receive a transition period. These models will get two additional years to update their designs. Officials want to avoid sudden disruption for manufacturers.
Major Shift for the New Energy Vehicle Market
Hidden door handles remain widespread in China’s new energy vehicle market. The category includes electric cars, hybrids, and fuel cell vehicles. About 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 consequences appear likely. China holds a dominant position in the global car industry. Regulatory changes there often shape international standards.
Global Safety Concerns Intensify
Safety regulators in the United States already investigate electric door handles used by Tesla. European authorities also consider similar regulations. 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 door handles suddenly failing. The agency received nine complaints involving 2021 Model Y vehicles. In four cases, owners broke windows to free trapped passengers.
