Xiaomi Driver Death Adds to China Push For New EV Door Designs

The recent fatality involving a Xiaomi Corp. SU7 electric sedan has raised concerns about the safety of flush car door handles, a design feature increasingly adopted by electric vehicle (EV) manufacturers. The incident has renewed scrutiny of this design and is expected to reinforce China's push for more stringent safety standards in the EV industry. Flush door handles, which are designed to be flush with the car's bodywork for improved aerodynamics and aesthetics, have been criticized for potentially hampering emergency egress during accidents. The Xiaomi incident has highlighted the need for a balanced approach between design and safety considerations. China's regulators are likely to respond to this incident by reviewing current safety standards and exploring new regulations to ensure that EV designs prioritize passenger safety. This move could influence the global EV market, as China's policies often set the tone for other countries' adoption of emerging technologies. The Xiaomi fatality serves as a reminder that as the EV industry continues to evolve, the safety of vehicle occupants must remain a top priority for manufacturers and policymakers alike.