Overview
- The draft standard targets an effective date of January 1, 2027, effectively ending power‑dependent retractable handles if the rule is finalized.
- Provisions specify mechanical emergency releases, defined placement with adequate hand space, required release force, and standardized markings for operation without power.
- Compliance is staged, with newly approved models given 13 months after implementation to meet the rules and vehicles already on sale allotted 25 months to modify.
- Regulators cite fatal incidents, including Xiaomi SU7 crashes in Chengdu and Tongling, as well as reporting that linked multiple deaths to doors that would not open after power loss.
- Automakers such as Tesla, BYD and others face redesigns for China, potential global knock‑on effects, ongoing U.S. safety scrutiny, and a noted same‑day dip in Tesla shares.