China is looking to ban another popular car feature in the near future which could have a huge impact on some of the most popular manufacturers in the world.
Citing concerns around road traffic accidents and the safety of passengers inside vehicles, China has drafted new measures that would ban yoke-style steering wheels.
The Chinese Ministry of Industry Information Technology (MIIT) has put forward legislation amid fears that the steering wheel could result in an injury for the driver if an accident were to occur.
Problems identified with the yoke-style steering wheel and its small surface area of cushioning, especially when compared to a traditional wheel.
Rectangular-shaped steering wheels will be banned from January 1, 2027, in addition to “aircraft-style” steering wheels, which have become more popular in recent years.
Mercedes-Benz and Lexus will unveil unique takes on the yoke-style steering wheel later this year, while the Tesla Model S Plaid is one of the best-known examples.
According to Chinese outlet AutoHome, the “GB 11557-202X” regulations have removed all technical content relating to “half-spoke steering wheels”.
Models already on sale with the yoke-style steering wheels will be given a transitional period to make changes.
China will be banning a popular car feature seen in the Tesla Model S Plaid
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TESLA
This is not expected to have a significant impact on most manufacturers since these features are still relatively uncommon.
China will also be moving forward with a ban on hidden door handles, with the same deadline of January 1, 2027.
The Chinese government will be taking action against the flush door handles in response to two fatal crashes involving Xiaomi electric vehicles.
Power failures with the vehicle have been identified as preventing doors from opening after an accident, potentially trapping drivers and passengers inside.
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Car brands will only get the green light to sell their vehicles if they abide by the new regulations next year.
Every car door, apart from the boot, must have a recessed space more than 6cm by 2cm by 2.6cm to allow access to the handle, while signs must be installed inside the car to show how to open the door.
Government-controlled newspaper China Daily reported that around 60 per cent of the 100 best-selling “new energy vehicles” have hidden door handles.
The new rules could have a huge impact on Tesla’s output of electric vehicles from its factory in Shanghai, given that the Elon Musk-led brand has been attributed to popularising the hidden door handle design.