BEIJING ( The COW News Digital) Chinese authorities are reportedly considering imposing restrictions on Tesla vehicles’ pop-out door handles due to safety concerns and design failure rates, according to a report published in Ming Jiang Pro.
The potential decision comes after safety audits highlighted a higher than acceptable failure rate of the pop-out handles used in Tesla cars sold across China. If implemented, the regulation would require Tesla to equip all new vehicles sold in China with traditional mechanical door handles starting July 2027.
Industry experts note that this could prompt Tesla to redesign the affected components entirely, given that China contributed over 20 percent of the company’s revenue last year. The adjustment is seen as a critical step to ensure compliance with Chinese safety standards and maintain Tesla’s market position in the world’s largest electric vehicle market.
The Ming Jiang Pro report emphasized that while the current pop-out handles provide marginal improvements in vehicle aerodynamics, the safety risk associated with potential malfunction outweighs these benefits. Authorities are particularly concerned about the potential hazard during emergencies, where door access is crucial.
Tesla has not yet released an official statement regarding the possible regulation. However, industry insiders suggest that the company may need to undertake a comprehensive redesign of door mechanisms, impacting both production timelines and vehicle design processes.
Analysts indicate that this move by Chinese regulators could also influence other foreign electric vehicle manufacturers operating in the country. Ensuring the highest safety standards in EV components is becoming a priority, especially as China continues to tighten safety and quality controls in the automotive sector.
Consumer safety advocates have welcomed the prospective regulation, emphasizing that door handle malfunctions have previously been linked to accidents in multiple regions. By mandating mechanical handles, regulators aim to reduce the risk of vehicle access failures, thereby protecting drivers and passengers.
Automotive market observers suggest that the adjustment might slightly affect Tesla’s sales strategy and production costs in China. Nevertheless, given the market’s importance, Tesla is expected to comply swiftly to safeguard its long-term presence and consumer trust.
The coming months will be crucial as Chinese authorities finalize the regulations, with industry stakeholders and Tesla closely monitoring the developments. If approved, this measure would mark a significant step in reinforcing automotive safety regulations in China while challenging Tesla to adapt its globally popular designs to local requirements.
