China Prohibits Hidden Car Door Handles Citing Safety Concerns
China has announced a significant ban on hidden car door handles due to safety concerns. The new regulation will take effect on January 1, 2027, as outlined by the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology. This move aims to increase automotive safety by ensuring all car doors have mechanical releases on both the interior and exterior.
Safety Concerns Over Hidden Door Handles
The decision to prohibit flush door handles comes amid rising safety issues associated with sleek car designs. These hidden mechanisms, while providing an aerodynamic advantage, can pose hazards during emergencies. In October, a tragic incident highlighted the risks when rescue personnel struggled to open the doors of a burning electric vehicle in Chengdu, resulting in a fatality.
New Regulations Details
- All car doors, excluding tailgates, must feature a mechanical exterior door handle.
- Interior handles must have enhanced visibility, including permanent graphic markings.
- Chinese car models approved for launch will have an extra two years to comply with these regulations.
Impact on the Automotive Industry
The ban marks a shift from the minimalist designs popularized by Tesla, particularly since the release of the Model S in 2012. Tesla, which has seen a drop in sales for two consecutive years, will have to adapt to these forthcoming regulations. As of last year, BYD, a Chinese rival, has surpassed Tesla as the world’s largest electric vehicle manufacturer.
These changes reflect China’s position as the largest electric vehicle market globally, with a rapidly expanding domestic industry and increasing international operations. The new safety regulations not only aim to improve consumer safety but also respond to the evolving landscape of electric vehicle design and functionality.
