China just dropped a bombshell, becoming the first nation to ban hidden door handles on electric vehicles starting January 1, 2027, amid deadly crashes linked to failures in models like Xiaomi EVs. The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology mandates mechanical releases inside and outside every passenger door, with exterior recessed spaces at least 6cm by 2cm by 2.5cm and interior signs no smaller than 1cm by 0.7cm.
Deadly Incidents Fuel Urgent Crackdown
Fatal accidents, including power failures trapping occupants, have spotlighted risks in hidden handles popular in Tesla and 60% of China’s top 100 new energy vehicles. Existing approved models get a two-year grace period to redesign, but new sales must comply fully. This targets the massive NEV market, blending EVs, hybrids, and fuel-cell cars.
Global Ripples Hit Tesla Hard
The move pressures global giants as China’s auto dominance reshapes standards worldwide, with US NHTSA probing Tesla Model Y handles after nine complaints—including kids trapped, forcing window breaks. Europe eyes similar rules, amplifying scrutiny on Elon Musk’s designs blamed for life-threatening failures.
