by Technological Innovations and Safety
Technologies are developing so rapidly that they sometimes create more problems than they solve. Chinese regulators are preparing to take action against what they see as a prime example of this phenomenon: fully retractable door handles. A new set of standards may explicitly ban hidden handles on new vehicles. If these standards become law, it could have global implications.
Details of the Proposed Regulation
The proposed regulation, reported by Mingjing Pro, comes from the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology. It would ban fully retractable handles while allowing semi-retractable versions. A key requirement is that all vehicles must include a mechanical backup system so doors can be opened during emergencies.
According to Car News China, the final rules may appear by the end of September. Their enforcement will only begin in 2027, so manufacturers will have some time to adjust their production. Obviously, many automakers are already aware of this potential change, so they may already be working on a solution.
Problems with Hidden Handles
Hidden door handles have been a hallmark of modern electric vehicles, praised not only for their futuristic look but also for aerodynamic benefits. However, real-world data seems to undermine this latter point of view.
Engineers claim that the drag reduction from hidden handles is only 0.005-0.01 Cd, saving about 0.6 kWh per 100 km. This is a very small amount, and even negligible for those who charge at home. At the same time, adding the motors and mechanisms that make these doors work can add 7-8 kg of weight.
Furthermore, we have reported numerous examples of such door handle failures. Frozen motors can leave drivers in a difficult situation with no quick way to get into their car. Accident data indicates that handles can fail in more than 30% of cases after side impacts. When replacement is needed, they are also significantly more expensive.
Implications of a Potential Ban
If China does implement this ban, it could effectively influence handles worldwide. Many automakers consider the world’s largest auto market an important part of their business plan. Changing their design to comply with such rules would likely mean keeping the same design without hidden handles in other markets as well.
Again, this will not prevent automakers from using semi-hidden handles, but it may stop the emergence of fully hidden ones in the future.
This move could stimulate innovation in the industry aimed at combining aesthetics with practicality and safety. Automakers may focus on developing alternatives that meet both regulatory requirements and consumer expectations for modern design. In the long term, this could lead to more reliable and affordable solutions, benefiting the entire industry.
