China will ban retractable door handles on new electric vehicles from January 2027, citing safety concerns over electronic systems that can trap occupants during crashes or power failures.
The country’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology has released draft regulations requiring all vehicles under 3.5 tonnes to have both interior and exterior handles with mechanical emergency releases. The move targets the flush, electronically-actuated handles popularised by Tesla and adopted by other premium electric vehicle manufacturers.
Regulators argue that electric-only door mechanisms can become deadly during collisions when battery or wiring systems fail, preventing occupants from escaping vehicles. The new rules mandate that doors must open manually even when electronic systems are compromised.
Tesla under scrutiny
Tesla faces particular scrutiny under the new regulations, with all current Tesla models featuring retractable handles that blend into the vehicle bodywork. According to Bloomberg data referenced in the original report, at least 15 people have died in Tesla crashes where electronic door releases failed to function.
The safety concerns extend beyond crash scenarios, with documented cases of Tesla Model Y occupants having to smash windows to escape after door handles stopped working during power failures. Cold weather failures and delayed deployment have also contributed to user frustration with the current systems.
While many electric vehicles include mechanical door releases inside the cabin, owners often struggle to locate or operate these backup systems under pressure. In some cases, the emergency releases fail to work entirely.
Industry-wide impact
The regulations will affect multiple manufacturers beyond Tesla, including Chinese automaker BYD and luxury brands like Mercedes-Benz that have adopted similar retractable handle designs. The rules represent a significant shift for premium electric vehicle manufacturers who have embraced the technology for its aerodynamic benefits and futuristic aesthetic.
Earlier this month, a Rivian owner publicly called for more obvious emergency exit handles after struggling to locate them during a power failure, highlighting that safety concerns around electronic door systems extend beyond the Chinese market.
Market implications
As the world’s largest electric vehicle market, China’s regulatory stance carries significant weight for global manufacturers. Brands offering retractable door handle designs will need to redesign their systems to maintain access to Chinese consumers.
The timing of the January 2027 implementation gives manufacturers approximately two years to develop compliant alternatives that balance safety requirements with design preferences.
The Chinese regulations may signal broader regulatory scrutiny of electronic door systems globally, with safety authorities in other markets potentially examining whether current designs meet evolving safety standards. For Australian consumers and manufacturers, the development represents a significant shift in electric vehicle safety requirements that could influence local market offerings and regulatory approaches.
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