Core Insights - The global automotive industry is rapidly transitioning towards electrification, with the market share of new energy vehicles (NEVs) continuously increasing [1][2] - The launch of the "Guidelines for the Friendly Design of Electric Vehicle Safety Rescue" aims to enhance the efficiency and safety of electric vehicle accident rescue operations [1][5] Market Growth and Safety Challenges - The development of NEVs is essential for China to transition from a major automotive country to a strong automotive nation, with annual production of NEVs expected to exceed 10 million units for the first time in 2024 [2] - In the first half of 2023, China's automotive industry reported production and sales exceeding 15 million units, with NEV production and sales reaching 6.968 million and 6.937 million units, respectively, marking year-on-year growth of 41.4% and 40.3% [2] - NEVs accounted for 44.3% of total new car sales, with a total of 36.89 million NEVs registered, representing 10.27% of the total vehicle count in China [2] Unique Safety Risks - Although the fire incidence rate of electric vehicles is comparable to that of traditional fuel vehicles, the safety risks increase with the age of electric vehicles, necessitating ongoing industry attention [3] - Factors such as superior acceleration, younger user demographics, and misuse of intelligent driving features contribute to a higher accident rate for electric vehicles, with household electric vehicles having an accident rate of 30%, significantly higher than the 19% for fuel vehicles [3] Emergency Protocols and Design Challenges - The complexity of high-voltage electrical systems, thermal runaway risks of batteries, and unique vehicle structures pose challenges for traditional rescue techniques [4] - Current standards focus on emergency performance testing and accident handling processes, but lack comprehensive guidance for rescue personnel, highlighting the need for safety protocols to be integrated into the design phase of electric vehicles [4] Industry Standards and Upgrades - The newly launched guidelines focus on enhancing rescue-friendly design across structural, electrical, functional designs, and rescue manuals, aiming to improve product reliability and safety [5] - The guidelines emphasize the importance of addressing emergency rescue measures during product development to mitigate safety risks associated with emergency situations [5] - The guidelines will also provide necessary emergency markings and tools, improving consumer convenience and rescue efficiency [5] Industry Development Perspective - The guidelines represent a commitment to high-quality industry development and a pathway for technological advancement, ensuring the usability of electric vehicle products and enhancing consumer trust [6] - The dual focus of the guidelines is to address issues identified in accident investigations and to meet the practical needs of emergency rescue, thereby improving rescue efficiency [6] - The guidelines will be updated regularly to remain relevant to industry needs and provide scientific support for safety design paths [6]