China has officially banned hidden car door handles on electric vehicles, making it the first country to implement such a safety regulation. The move, finalized on February 2, 2026, requires all new EVs sold from January 1, 2027, to feature door handles with mechanical releases and clear markings, addressing concerns that sleek, flush designs have contributed to fatal accidents.
The regulation mandates that exterior door handles must provide a hand operating space of at least 60mm x 20mm x 25mm relative to the body surface, ensuring they are not fully retractable. Additionally, each door, excluding tailgates, must be equipped with a handle that has a mechanical release function, operable without tools even after a crash or battery thermal event. This directly targets designs popularized by Tesla, where handles are often electronically actuated and can fail in emergencies.
Safety advocates have long warned about the risks of hidden door handles, which became widespread with the rise of electric vehicles seeking aerodynamic efficiency and minimalist aesthetics. High-profile incidents, such as a Cybertruck accident in California where three teenagers died because rescuers couldn’t access the vehicle due to hidden handles and reinforced glass, have spurred regulatory action. These designs, while reducing drag, can prevent occupants from escaping or hinder rescue efforts when electronics malfunction.
The ban will force a redesign of many popular EV models, including those from Tesla, Xiaomi, and other manufacturers that have adopted similar handle systems. Tesla, in particular, has used various hidden handle designs across its lineup, from the Model S’s electrically extending handles to the Model 3’s push-button mechanism. The new rules require handles to be placed in expected positions and clearly marked, addressing confusion that has led to aftermarket solutions like instructional stickers for Tesla doors.
China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology first proposed the ban in September 2025, following draft regulations that included this and other safety measures. The finalization comes after public consultation and aligns with broader efforts to enhance EV safety, such as potential limits on acceleration times. Cars already in late design stages may receive up to two years of grace period to comply, minimizing disruption to production schedules.
This regulatory step positions China as a leader in automotive safety standards, potentially influencing global markets. European and American regulators are reportedly investigating similar measures, with the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) already probing door handle safety. As the world’s largest EV market, China’s policies often set trends, and automakers may adopt compliant designs worldwide to streamline manufacturing and avoid market fragmentation.
The industry is expected to respond by reverting to more traditional handle designs or developing innovative solutions that balance safety with aesthetics. While the ban may slightly impact aerodynamic performance, the marginal gains are outweighed by the critical need for reliable emergency egress. Manufacturers are likely to prioritize compliance, given China’s significant consumer base and the growing emphasis on vehicle safety globally.
In conclusion, China’s ban on hidden car door handles marks a significant shift in EV design priorities, emphasizing practicality over style in the interest of saving lives. As regulations take effect in 2027, consumers can expect safer, more intuitive vehicle exits, and the move may prompt a broader reevaluation of automotive features that compromise safety for minor benefits.
