China is considering banning hidden exterior door handles in vehicles, according to a report from the Chinese outlet Mingjing Pro. This move comes after global criticism of these handles for being finicky, unreliable, and potentially dangerous for first responders. If the ban goes into effect, both Chinese and Western car manufacturers would need to adjust their designs to comply with the new regulation.
The introduction of self-retracting, electronic door handles, popularized by the Tesla Model S in 2012, has become a trend in the automotive industry. These handles not only add a futuristic touch to vehicles but also improve aerodynamics and efficiency. However, many drivers have raised concerns about the reliability and usability of these handles, prompting regulatory bodies to question their necessity.
The potential ban in China follows draft rules issued in May requiring cars to have a clearly marked mechanical release on the inside, in addition to an electronic button. While the ban on fully hidden exterior door handles has not been confirmed yet, an unnamed automotive company R&D employee revealed that Chinese regulators are preparing to implement the ban, urging automakers to comply as soon as possible.
Critics of concealed door handles point to incidents like the Aito M7 crossover crash in China last April, where the hidden handles failed to open, hindering first responders’ rescue efforts and resulting in fatalities. This has raised concerns about the safety implications of such handles, leading to calls for stricter regulations.
If the ban becomes official, car designs could undergo significant changes, with vehicles like the Ford Mustang Mach-E and Lexus RZ350e possibly needing to replace their hidden handles with traditional ones. Models like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6, which feature electronic flush handles with mechanical releases, may also need to make adjustments to comply with the new regulation.
In light of safety concerns and the importance of reliability in electric vehicles, some suggest that the U.S. should consider similar regulations regarding hidden door handles. The tragic incident involving Dr. Omar Awan’s Tesla Model S in 2019, where the hidden handles failed to deploy, serves as a stark reminder of the potential risks associated with such features.
While futuristic car designs are appealing, safety should always remain a top priority. The potential ban on hidden exterior door handles in China could mark a significant shift in automotive design practices, emphasizing the importance of functionality and safety over aesthetics. As car manufacturers adapt to these new regulations, the industry may see a shift towards more practical and reliable door handle designs in the future.