China has banned hidden door handles on electric vehicles because of safety concerns. The move makes China the first country to prohibit the design. Regulators acted as electric vehicles face growing scrutiny worldwide. Several deadly incidents increased pressure on safety authorities. Two fatal crashes in China involved electric cars produced by Xiaomi. Investigators suspected power failures blocked passengers from opening the doors.
Safety Rules Target Emergency Situations
The new regulations allow sales only for cars with mechanical door releases inside and outside. State media reported details of the decision. Authorities want to guarantee access during accidents and power failures. Regulators aim to prevent passengers from becoming trapped inside vehicles.
The rules will take effect on 1 January 2027. The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology issued the requirements. 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 occupants and rescuers to open doors quickly.
Clear Door Instructions Required Inside Cars
Inside the vehicle, visible signs must show how to open each door. These signs must measure at least 1cm by 0.7cm. Regulators want passengers to understand door operation immediately. The rules focus on speed and clarity during emergencies.
Cars already approved and close to market entry will receive a transition period. These models will get two additional years to update their designs. Authorities want to avoid major disruption for manufacturers.
New Energy Vehicle Market Faces Major Changes
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 to China, global effects appear likely. China holds a major position in the global automotive industry. Regulatory changes often influence international vehicle design.
International Regulators Increase Scrutiny
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 door handles suddenly failing. The agency received nine complaints involving 2021 Model Y vehicles. In four cases, owners broke windows to free trapped passengers.
