tech
February 4, 2026
China banning hidden door handles on cars starting in 2027 due to safety concerns
Hong Kong — China will ban hidden door handles on cars, commonly used on Tesla's electric vehicles and many other EV models, starting next year.
TL;DR
- China will ban hidden door handles on cars from January 1, 2027.
- All car doors, except the tailgate, must have a mechanical release function.
- The ban addresses safety concerns after accidents where electronic doors failed to open.
- Existing car models have until January 1, 2029, to comply.
- The new rules will impact electric vehicles with retractable door handles, such as Tesla models.
- China's policy is expected to influence global automotive safety standards.
- Carmakers may face significant redesign or retrofit costs.
- The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration had previously investigated Tesla's electronic door handles.
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