China has announced a significant regulatory change that will impact the design of electric vehicles (EVs) sold in the country. Under new draft rules from the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, all vehicles weighing under 3.5 tons must include interior and exterior door handles equipped with a mechanical emergency release. This measure effectively prohibits the use of retractable door handles, a feature made popular by Tesla. The new regulations are set to take effect on January 1, 2027.
This decision comes in response to safety concerns that have been raised about the functionality of retractable handles during emergencies. A recent analysis by Bloomberg linked 15 fatalities directly to incidents involving Tesla’s door handles failing to open during critical moments. While many EVs do have mechanical releases located inside, there have been numerous reports of drivers being unable to find or operate these mechanisms in emergency situations.
Impact on Tesla and Other Automakers
The ban will affect all manufacturers of electric vehicles, including prominent local player BYD, but it is expected to hit Tesla the hardest. Currently, every Tesla model features these retractable handles. If the company wishes to maintain its presence in the Chinese market, it must adapt its designs within the next year to comply with the new rules.
This regulatory change is not the only challenge for Tesla regarding its door handle design. U.S. regulators are also scrutinizing the safety of Tesla’s flush-mounted electronic door handles. There have been multiple reports from owners who found themselves unable to enter or exit their vehicles when the battery was low, leading to emergency responders needing to break windows to rescue trapped passengers, including children.
As the electric vehicle market continues to grow, safety remains a top priority for regulators worldwide. The new rules in China highlight the ongoing tension between innovative vehicle design and the necessity for robust safety measures. With this ban, China aims to enhance the safety of all vehicles on its roads, ensuring that consumers can rely on their vehicles in emergency situations.
As the deadline approaches, Tesla and other manufacturers must rapidly reassess their designs to align with these new regulations while continuing to meet consumer demands for innovation and style.
