🚘 China Bans Hidden Car Door Handles Since 2027

Retractable door handles can trap people after crashes, regulators insist. This move follows reports of at least 15 fatalities linked to the feature by early 2026, prompting China to implement stricter rules than the ongoing investigations currently seen in the United States.

The new standards require handles to be large enough for a solid grip and ensure that doors can be opened easily from the inside, even after airbag deployment or a battery fire. Major automakers—including Tesla, BMW, Xiaomi, and Nio—must redesign their latest models to comply with the safety mandate.