China Bans Hidden EV Door Handles After Fatal Crashes, Prioritizes Rescue Safety

• China has prohibited hidden or flush door handles in electric vehicles due to concerns they hinder rescue efforts in crashes.
• The ban follows two fatal accidents involving Xiaomi EVs where power failures were suspected of preventing door openings.
• New guidelines mandate a mechanical door release system that functions even without electricity, with easily visible mechanisms inside and out.
• The move aims to ensure doors can always be opened manually, regardless of the vehicle's power status, balancing design with fundamental safety.
• This policy change in the world's largest EV market is expected to influence global automotive design trends towards clearer safety measures.