China is implementing updated safety regulations for steering systems that will ban the use of 'half-steering wheels' in new vehicles from next year. This change comes as part of a broader update to vehicle safety norms, requiring a full steering wheel circumference that meets new impact testing criteria. Notably, automakers such as Lexus and Tesla will need to adapt their designs to comply with these new standards, which align with international norms established by the United Nations.

The revised regulations replace a 2011 standard and aim to significantly enhance the crash resistance of steering systems. This includes reducing the maximum allowable horizontal force during a collision and enforcing stricter limits on the movement of the steering column during an impact. The rationale behind these changes is to improve occupant safety in the event of an accident, reflecting a growing trend towards more rigorous safety measures in the automotive industry.

These new regulations may also lead to broader design shifts within the automotive market, particularly regarding vehicle interiors, such as the planned elimination of retractable door handles alongside half-steering wheels. As the automotive industry evolves, compliance with these enhanced standards could influence design aesthetics and functionality, further emphasizing safety as a paramount concern in vehicle manufacturing.