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China Bans Hidden Car Door Handles Over Safety Concerns

China has banned hidden car door handles on electric vehicles (EVs), becoming the first country to prohibit the controversial design popularized by Tesla, according to BBC News reports. The new regulations, prompted by safety concerns following deadly incidents involving EVs, will take effect on January 1, 2027.

The decision comes as electric vehicles face increasing scrutiny from safety watchdogs globally. Specifically, two fatal crashes in China involving Xiaomi EVs raised concerns that power failures prevented doors from being opened, BBC News reported.

Under the new rules, cars sold in China must have a mechanical release both inside and outside the doors, state media reported. This requirement aims to ensure occupants can exit a vehicle even in the event of a power failure or other emergency.

The move follows a series of incidents that highlighted the potential dangers of hidden door handles. While aesthetically appealing, these designs rely on electronic systems to function, raising concerns about their reliability in emergency situations.