China is moving to tighten safety standards for modern vehicle technologies. The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) released a draft proposal on October 10, 2026, seeking public feedback until November 10, 2026.
Key proposed changes include:
- A ban on fully hidden door handles, requiring mechanical backups and sufficient space for manual operation.
- A prohibition on foldable and flexible display screens.
- Restrictions on using zero-gravity, swivel, or fold-flat seats while the vehicle is in motion.
- Mandatory physical controls for critical safety functions.
The proposal also calls for stricter crash-safety and reliability testing for large infotainment screens and complex head-up displays. Automakers would also need to regulate content displayed through advanced exterior lighting systems.
If finalized, these rules will impact how manufacturers design and test new models. Starting January 1, 2027, automakers applying for approval of new models with innovative designs must submit detailed technical documentation. Models already approved would need to file supplementary information by July 1, 2027. These measures aim to ensure vehicle safety remains a priority as technology advances.
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