“The risks associated with hidden door handles are closely linked to emergency response and occupant survival during critical incidents such as collisions or fires,” he said. In an October incident last year in Chengdu, China, a driver died after hidden door handles could not be opened by passers-by or rescuers before the car burst into flames. Law noted that China’s new regulation directly addresses these risks by requiring mechanical door handles on both the inside and outside of vehicles. Universiti Pertahanan Nasional Malaysia Assoc Prof Dr Ng Choy Peng also urged the Road Transport Department (JPJ) to closely scrutinise upcoming electric vehicle (EV) models equipped with hidden door handles. She explained that most hidden handles rely on electric actuators, sensors or software, which may shut down after a crash, preventing doors from unlocking.

Source: The Star February 07, 2026 23:30 UTC