China to Ban Production of Cars with Automatic Door Systems

GATEOFWISE.COM/15 SEPT

After a series of fatal accidents particularly in Germany linked to difficulties in opening car doors, China has announced plans to halt the production of vehicles equipped with sensor based or automatic door systems.

The move could significantly impact the auto industry, as this technology is widely used in vehicles made by Tesla, BMW, Nio, Mercedes, and Xpeng.

Sensor and automatic door-opening systems are considered advanced technology, allowing drivers or passengers to open car doors without physical effort or manual touch.

Earlier in September 2025, a tragic accident occurred in Schwerte, near Dortmund, Germany. Police reported that three people a father and his two children died inside a Tesla electric car that crashed into a tree and burst into flames.

Emergency responders said they tried to open the vehicle’s doors to rescue the victims but were unable to, as the door release mechanisms had already burned, leaving the family trapped inside.

Chinese state media reported that authorities are drafting regulations to ban the use of sensor-based door systems starting in 2027, citing safety concerns.

However, the new rules would still allow vehicles to use such technology on the condition that they also include a manual backup mechanism for emergency situations.

The announcement has already raised concerns among Chinese automakers, as many electric vehicles in the country rely on this system.

If implemented, the law could also affect customers in Europe, the Netherlands, and beyond, impacting manufacturers like Nio, Xpeng, and other global automakers.