China Bans Hidden Car Door Handles Over Safety Concerns
Saturday, 2026/02/07167 words3 minutes305 reads
China has introduced groundbreaking safety regulations by banning hidden door handles on electric vehicles, becoming the first country to prohibit these controversial designs popularized by Tesla.
The decision follows several deadly incidents in China, including two fatal crashes involving Xiaomi electric vehicles where power failures reportedly prevented passengers from escaping. Under the new regulations, all vehicles must feature mechanical door releases both inside and outside, ensuring they function without electrical power.
The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology has specified exact requirements: exterior door handles must have a recessed space of at least 6cm by 2cm by 2.5cm, while interior emergency releases must be clearly marked with signs measuring 1cm by 0.7cm. The rules take effect on January 1, 2027, though vehicles already in final approval stages will have two additional years to comply.
Hidden handles are currently used in approximately 60% of China's top-selling new energy vehicles. Given China's dominant position in the global automotive industry, this regulatory change is expected to influence safety standards worldwide.
