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China EVs: Zero-Gravity Seats Face Safety Scrutiny
3 Jun
Summary
- China's industry ministry flagged risks in draft EV safety rules.
- "Zero-gravity" seats recline steeply, potentially compromising safety.
- Public comment on curbs for seats and batteries is open until July 25.
China is moving to tighten safety regulations for its rapidly expanding electric vehicle industry. The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology released draft rules on Tuesday flagging concerns about "zero-gravity" seats, which are becoming more common in EVs with advanced intelligent cockpits. These seats allow for steep reclining angles, but regulators noted that occupant safety might not be guaranteed in the event of a collision.
The ministry is currently soliciting public feedback on proposed mandatory safety standards for vehicle seats and head restraints, as well as for the recycling of auto power batteries, which includes dismantling and crushing. This initiative follows scrutiny of EV safety after several fatal accidents last year involving Xiaomi's SU7 sedans.
Earlier this year, China's regulators also mandated a ban, effective from 2027, on "hidden" car door handles that automatically deploy in response to a key fob, mobile phone, or manual pressure. The public comment period for the new seat safety rules will conclude on July 25.
