Core Viewpoint - The safety of hidden door handles in electric vehicles is under scrutiny following tragic accidents involving the Xiaomi SU7, raising concerns about their functionality during emergencies [1][3][8]. Group 1: Incident Overview - A recent accident in Chengdu involving a Xiaomi SU7 resulted in the death of the driver, with rescuers unable to open the car doors due to the electronic locking mechanism [1]. - Another incident in Anhui led to the deaths of three students when the vehicle's doors were locked after a collision, preventing escape [1][3]. Group 2: Safety Concerns - The issue of door lock failure in electric vehicles is not isolated, with 12.7% of accidents in 2024 attributed to power loss preventing door opening, and complaints related to hidden door handles increasing by 132% year-on-year [8]. - The design of hidden door handles, while aesthetically pleasing, poses significant risks during emergencies, as rescuers may not be familiar with the mechanical unlocking process [6][11]. Group 3: Industry Response - Some manufacturers are beginning to implement safety upgrades, such as adding independent mechanical unlocking systems and improving door handle designs to enhance safety during collisions [17][18]. - The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology is seeking public opinion on new safety standards for door handles, which would require mechanical release functions and ensure doors can be opened without tools after an accident [17][18]. Group 4: Recommendations for Improvement - Experts suggest enhancing the reliability of mechanical emergency mechanisms, ensuring backup power for electronic locks, and optimizing vehicle materials to reduce deformation during collisions [19][20]. - The automotive industry is encouraged to prioritize safety features over aesthetic designs, as the current focus on reducing drag coefficients has led to compromised safety in emergency situations [15][21].