Core Viewpoint - The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) of China has initiated a public consultation on the mandatory national standard for "Automotive Door Handle Safety Technical Requirements," signaling a move to address the safety issues associated with hidden door handles in vehicles [1][2]. Group 1: Industry Trends - The rapid development of electric and intelligent vehicles has led to the widespread adoption of hidden door handles, which are seen as a hallmark of high-end and smart designs [1]. - The shift from traditional mechanical door handles to electric-driven precision devices has raised concerns about the original functionality of door handles, which is to provide reliable access to the vehicle [1][2]. Group 2: Safety Concerns - Recent incidents, such as the fire following a collision of a Wuling M7 and the Xiaomi SU7's failure to open after a high-speed crash, highlight the technical flaws and design oversights in current automotive door handle systems [1]. - The design preference for aesthetics over safety has been criticized, with industry leaders questioning whether the pursuit of minimal drag coefficients justifies compromising passenger safety [1]. Group 3: Regulatory Response - The MIIT's move to regulate door handle design is not just about specific components but aims to reshape the innovation logic of the entire automotive industry [2]. - The proposed standards, including "power failure protection," "uniform marking," and "anti-pinch design," are intended to establish a safety baseline that keeps pace with technological advancements in the automotive sector [2]. Group 4: Consumer Sentiment - Public feedback indicates widespread frustration with hidden door handles, with users expressing confusion and concern over their practicality and safety [2]. - The call for a shift towards a "safety-first" innovation culture in the automotive industry is evident, emphasizing the need for designs that prioritize human-centered safety alongside technological advancement [2].