Pop-out door handles could soon be discontinued as China enforces stricter regulations on the contentious design.

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      Concerns regarding the safety of hidden and electronic door handles have led China to take action, with global automakers expected to feel the repercussions.

      Cars featuring pop-out door handles have transitioned from a futuristic novelty to an almost standard design in recent years, particularly as electric vehicle manufacturers sought to emulate Tesla’s sleek, minimalist aesthetic. Although they appear stylish, these door handles have generated significant frustration in reality. Issues such as handles freezing in cold weather and doors failing to open when the battery dies have resulted in numerous reports of drivers getting locked out, and alarmingly, passengers being trapped inside after accidents. In response, Chinese regulators are intervening to end this trend.

      China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology has introduced new vehicle safety regulations that effectively prohibit hidden and flush-mounted door handles on newly manufactured cars. As reported by Bloomberg, these regulations will come into effect on January 1, 2027, and will affect all newly approved passenger vehicles sold in China.

      The decision stems from several incidents where electronic door handles malfunctioned during accidents or power failures, hindering occupants' ability to escape and delaying emergency rescue operations. Chinese authorities assert that door handles reliant solely on electronic systems pose a safety hazard, particularly in electric vehicles where a damaged or drained battery can incapacitate essential systems.

      According to the new regulations, all vehicles are required to have clearly visible, mechanically linked door handles that can be operated from both inside and outside the car. Even in the event of an electrical failure, doors must still be operable by hand. Interior manual releases must also be clearly labeled to ensure passengers can easily locate them during emergencies.

      China’s regulation may compel global design alterations

      While this regulation is confined to China, it may have significant ramifications for automakers globally. Approximately 60 percent of the best-selling vehicles in China currently feature some type of hidden or pop-out door handles. Manufacturers will now need to redesign upcoming models or risk losing access to the largest EV market in the world. Vehicles already approved for sale will have a grace period until 2029.

      With China establishing this new standard, similar regulations are likely to emerge in other markets, pushing the industry back toward simpler and more functional door handle designs.