China will ban hidden or flush-mounted car door handles starting January 1, 2027, in response to safety concerns raised by recent accidents. The new regulations, issued by the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, require all vehicles sold in China to have mechanically operable door releases—both inside and outside the car.
Why This Matters
This decision could significantly impact automotive design trends, especially as China is the world’s largest car market. Automakers have increasingly adopted hidden handles to improve aerodynamics and aesthetics, particularly in electric vehicles (EVs). The ban directly targets two main types: handles that pop out when pressed, like those on some Tesla models, and electrically powered handles that extend automatically, such as those found on the Kia EV9.
The Safety Issue
The ban comes after high-profile incidents in China where passengers were trapped in burning or disabled EVs due to inaccessible door handles. In two separate accidents involving Xiaomi SU7 electric cars, power failures prevented occupants from opening doors, leading to fatalities. The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology cited these cases as justification for the new regulations.
Technical Requirements
The regulations specify that semi-hidden handles must have a recessed area at least 2.4 inches by 0.8 inches for easy gripping. All vehicles must also include clear signage indicating how to open the doors, ensuring passengers and rescuers can quickly access the vehicle in emergencies.
Industry Impact and Timeline
Existing car models approved for sale in China have until January 1, 2029, to comply with the new rules. However, all new vehicles sold after January 1, 2027, must adhere to the mechanical release requirement. The move is likely to force automakers to redesign door mechanisms for the Chinese market.
While the regulations are currently limited to China, the country’s market dominance means the decision could influence global automotive standards.
The ban underscores the growing tension between design innovation and fundamental safety features. While hidden handles improve aerodynamics, the need for quick and reliable escape mechanisms in emergencies remains paramount.
