Core Insights - Hyundai has received recognition for outstanding safety performance with the 2026 IONIQ 9 earning the 2025 TOP SAFETY PICK+ (TSP+) award and the 2026 Santa Cruz receiving the 2025 TOP SAFETY PICK (TSP) designation, bringing Hyundai's total to nine IIHS TSP/TSP+ awarded vehicles for 2025 [1][5] Summary by Category Safety Awards - The 2026 IONIQ 9 and 2026 Santa Cruz have been awarded the 2025 TSP+ and TSP respectively, highlighting Hyundai's commitment to safety [1][3] - Hyundai now leads the industry with nine vehicles recognized by IIHS for 2025, including eight TSP+ awards and one TSP award [1][5] IIHS Testing Criteria - The 2025 IIHS test criteria have become more stringent, particularly regarding second-row occupant safety, requiring an acceptable rating for TSP and a good rating for TSP+ [2][5] - To qualify for TSP/TSP+, vehicles must achieve good ratings in small overlap front and updated side tests, as well as acceptable or good ratings in pedestrian front crash prevention evaluations [3][5] Economic Impact - Hyundai's operations in the U.S. contribute $20.1 billion annually to the economy and support 190,000 jobs, reflecting the company's significant presence in the market [4]

Core Viewpoint - The introduction of mandatory national standards for hidden door handles in vehicles aims to address safety concerns associated with electric hidden door handles, enhancing overall automotive safety [1][2]. Group 1: Safety Standards - The draft "Automotive Door Handle Safety Technical Requirements" outlines new safety standards to improve the safety of door handles, particularly for electric hidden types [1]. - Each vehicle door (excluding the tailgate) must be equipped with mechanical exterior and interior door handles to ensure accessibility in case of power failure or emergencies [2]. - The operational space for the exterior door handle must not be less than 60mm×20mm×25mm, ensuring a minimum of 30 cubic centimeters for hand operation [2]. Group 2: Emergency Accessibility - The new standards require that mechanical interior door handles be easily identifiable and accessible for passengers in emergencies, with specific placement guidelines [2][3]. - Vehicles must include necessary signage for interior door handles that are easily recognizable and visible in low-light conditions [3]. - User manuals for vehicles must provide clear instructions on the location and operation of door handles, especially under special circumstances [3]. Group 3: Implementation Timeline - The requirement for the operational space for door handles will take effect seven months after the implementation of the new standards for new vehicle models [3]. - Existing models with approved door handle designs will need to comply with the new standards within 19 months of implementation [3]. Group 4: Industry Impact - Experts suggest that the establishment of these standards aligns with the trend of vehicle electrification, balancing technological advancement with safety [3].