China Bans Hidden Car Door Handles to Enhance Vehicle Safety
In a significant move to bolster vehicle safety, China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology has announced new regulations mandating that all cars sold within the country must be equipped with mechanical door handles. This directive, set to take effect on January 1, 2027, effectively bans the use of concealed, electronically operated door handles—a design feature popularized by Tesla and subsequently adopted by various electric vehicle manufacturers in China.
Background and Rationale
The new regulation stipulates that every door, excluding the tailgate, must have an externally accessible mechanical release. Additionally, vehicles are required to feature a mechanical release mechanism on the interior. This policy change comes in response to a series of high-profile fatal incidents where occupants were unable to exit vehicles due to electronic door locks failing, often because of insufficient power supply from the vehicle’s battery system.
An investigation by Bloomberg in September 2025 highlighted several accidents involving Tesla vehicles where concealed door handles malfunctioned, preventing first responders and occupants from opening the doors. The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration subsequently initiated a defect investigation into the door handles of Tesla’s Model Y and Model 3. Although Tesla vehicles are equipped with manual release mechanisms inside, these can be difficult for children to access, and many owners are unaware of their existence. In light of these concerns, some U.S. lawmakers have proposed regulations requiring manual door releases in all new vehicles.
China’s Proactive Measures
China is the first country to implement a ban on hidden, electronically actuated door handles. The decision was influenced by fatal incidents within the country, including a crash involving a Xiaomi SU7 electric sedan, which prompted regulators to reconsider the design of electric vehicle (EV) door handles.
The process began in May 2025, with over 40 domestic vehicle manufacturers, parts suppliers, and testing institutions participating in initial research. More than 100 industry experts engaged in multiple rounds of discussions to establish the framework for the new standard, culminating in the draft of the Safety Technical Requirements for Automobile Door Handles rule.
Industry Response
The drafting process included numerous automakers, such as BYD, Geely Holdings, SAIC, and Xiaomi, as well as international manufacturers like General Motors, Ford, Hyundai, Nissan, Porsche, Toyota, and Volkswagen. Notably, Tesla was not listed as an official participant in the drafting process, according to information from the Chinese government’s standards agency.
Implications for Vehicle Design
The ban on hidden door handles marks a significant shift in vehicle design philosophy, prioritizing safety over aesthetic and aerodynamic considerations. While concealed door handles contribute to a sleek appearance and can improve aerodynamics, the potential safety risks associated with electronic failures have led regulators to mandate more reliable mechanical alternatives.
Global Context
The issue of electronic door handle safety is not confined to China. In the United States, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s investigation into Tesla’s door handles underscores a growing awareness of the potential hazards associated with electronic door mechanisms. The proposed regulations by U.S. lawmakers to require manual door releases in all new vehicles reflect a broader trend towards enhancing vehicle safety standards globally.
Conclusion
China’s proactive stance in banning hidden car door handles sets a precedent for other nations grappling with similar safety concerns. By mandating mechanical door releases, China aims to prevent tragic incidents where occupants are trapped due to electronic failures. This regulatory change is expected to influence vehicle design and manufacturing practices, emphasizing the paramount importance of safety in automotive innovation.
