China is set to implement new regulations in 2027 that will require vehicle doors to be operable mechanically from both inside and outside, addressing safety concerns related to modern cars with hidden door handles, popularized by Tesla. These designs can malfunction after accidents or battery failures, making it difficult for emergency responders to rescue occupants. An investigative report noted instances where Tesla’s door handles failed to work, linking this to fatalities.
The new rules arise following scrutiny of various automakers, including those in China. They mandate that both external and internal door handles be designed for manual operation, ensuring they can be accessed even in emergencies. This change impacts global automakers selling in China but doesn’t directly affect the U.S. market. Meanwhile, in the U.S., growing safety concerns have led to investigations by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and legislative proposals to require manual overrides for car doors.
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