The new rules take effect in January 2027 and require all EVs to have mechanical release handles.

China will ban 'hidden' car door handles from 2027, becoming the first country to phase out a design pioneered by Tesla (TSLA.O) and adopted by Chinese competitors including Xiaomi (1810.HK).

Safety concerns have risen in China recently over sleek, aerodynamic car doors that reduce drag but are prone to losing operability in the event of a crash.