Chinese authorities are finalizing a new standard that will ban the use of completely hidden door handles in new cars starting in July 2027. The decision comes after a rise in accidents and technical failures that have turned these design elements into a risk to passenger safety.
According to official data, in 2024 there was a 47% increase in accidents due to these handles, while only 67% of doors opened in crash tests, compared to 98% for traditional models. Real-life cases include passengers being trapped during frosts or floods.
The regulation will still allow traditional and semi-retractable handles, but on the condition that they have a mechanical backup system.
Critics say the aerodynamic benefits are minimal, while the costs and failures are high. The development is part of a global debate over controversial design trends in electric cars, with Euro NCAP warning that from 2026, vehicles that hide basic functions on screens will no longer receive a five-star rating.