Regulators in China have announced a ban on retractable door handles, a design feature popularized by Tesla, impacting all electric vehicles (EVs) sold in the country. The new regulations, issued by China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, require that all vehicles weighing under 3.5 tons must have both interior and exterior handles equipped with a mechanical emergency release. This change, which takes effect on January 1, 2027, effectively prohibits the use of retractable handles in new vehicle designs.
The decision stems from safety concerns linked to the functionality of electric-only retractable handles. A Bloomberg analysis highlighted that 15 fatalities were directly associated with incidents involving Tesla’s doors failing to open. While many EVs include mechanical releases within the cabin, there have been multiple reports of drivers being unable to locate or operate these mechanisms during emergencies, raising significant safety issues.
Impact on Tesla and Other EV Manufacturers
This ban will have widespread implications for all electric vehicle manufacturers, including BYD, a well-known Chinese auto manufacturer. However, Tesla is likely to be the most affected. Every model produced by Tesla features retractable door handles, meaning the company must adapt its designs to comply with the new regulations within the next year. Should Elon Musk’s company wish to maintain its presence in the Chinese market, it faces a pressing challenge to redesign its door handle system.
The scrutiny surrounding Tesla’s door handles extends beyond China. Regulatory bodies in the United States are currently investigating safety concerns related to Tesla’s flush-mounted electronic door handles. Reports have emerged from owners who experienced difficulties entering or exiting their vehicles due to battery power loss. In some troubling instances, first responders were forced to break car windows to rescue children trapped inside their Teslas.
As the automotive industry increasingly shifts towards electric vehicles, regulatory measures like this one will shape design standards and safety protocols, underscoring the importance of balancing innovation with consumer safety. The forthcoming ban on retractable door handles in China serves as a significant reminder for automakers to prioritize functional design alongside aesthetic appeal.
