China has banned the use of Tesla-style hidden electric handles in cars

China has banned the use of hidden electric grips similar to Tesla’s in cars due to safety concerns and fatal accidents. From 2027, all cars must have a mechanical opening mechanism.

In a revolutionary decision that could change the design of modern cars around the world, the Chinese government has banned the hidden, all-electric door handles made famous by the Tesla style. The new law, which will take effect in 2027, requires automakers to install an accessible mechanical opening mechanism for car doors that will work even after a power outage or an accident.

This decision was taken after a series of heartbreaking and deadly incidents. In several accident cases, including the accidents involving the new Xiaomi SU7 car, rescuers and ordinary people could not get the passengers out of the car in time because the electric handles were locked and hidden in the body. In one of these incidents in the city of Chengdu, eyewitnesses failed to open the doors despite many efforts and the occupants died.

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Beauty at the cost of life; Are hidden handles worth it?

For years, car manufacturers have been looking for a more polished appearance and improved aerodynamics by removing traditional handles and using flush models. But research shows that the effect of this design on reducing fuel or energy consumption is negligible (about 0.6 kWh per 100 km), while its safety risks in emergency situations are very serious.

Considering that China is the largest car exporter in the world, this new law will not be limited to the domestic market of this country. Chinese brands and even Western automakers such as Tesla and Mercedes-Benz that sell their products in China will be forced to rethink their product designs. This means we’ll probably soon see the return of traditional, safer grips to modern cars around the world.