What Made China Ban Powered-Door Handles? Explained

China has become the first country to ban powered door handles on electric vehicles, introducing new safety rules that could reshape global car design. The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology announced that all cars sold from January 1, 2027 must include mechanical release mechanisms inside and outside, with final-stage models given until 2029 to comply. The move targets flush handles popularized by Tesla, following scrutiny after crashes involving Xiaomi EVs where suspected power failures prevented doors from opening.

Why China Banned Power Door Handles?

Fatal Incident Reported

China began reassessing EV door-handle standards in July 2024 after several fatal crashes raised concerns about passengers being trapped during emergencies. The review was prompted by high-profile incidents, including two deadly accidents involving Xiaomi electric vehicles, where fires broke out after impact and suspected power failures prevented doors from opening, leaving occupants unable to escape.

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Electronic door handles can stop working during battery drain, short circuits, or crashes, leaving passengers stuck inside without a manual release. Rear-seat occupants are especially at risk since backup mechanisms are often hidden. To prevent such life-threatening lock-ins during fires or submersion, the new rules mandate visible, tool-free mechanical handles that function independently of electricity.

Finger Injury Risk

The powered door handles may also pose finger injury risks, with growing reports of such injuries worldwide. Children and elderly occupants are especially vulnerable since the flush design lacks protective guards. This everyday hazard has drawn criticism in forums and news, where many argue the feature prioritizes style over basic safety.

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Challenge For Emergency Responders

A Bloomberg report has documented multiple cases where vehicle occupants or rescuers struggled to open doors after collisions cut power to the car. At least 15 deaths have been linked to a dozen such incidents involving Tesla vehicles that crashed and caught fire, raising serious concerns about the risks posed by electronic door systems during emergencies.