China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology announced a draft amendment to safety standards for steering wheels in vehicles, likely ending the use of open or aircraft-like steering wheels in the Chinese market starting January 1, 2027.
The Chinese government is taking a significant step in vehicle safety with a proposed amendment to the national safety standards governing steering wheels. This move is aimed at banning the open steering wheel design, which resembles those found in aircraft, in response to advancements in electric and smart vehicle designs. The decision is part of a comprehensive review of safety regulations, reflecting China's commitment to improving automotive safety as innovations in the vehicle industry continue to grow.
The draft amendment emphasizes the importance of stricter crash testing protocols, requiring impact assessments on the entire circumference of the steering wheel rather than limited areas, which had been the case before. The current regulations permit a maximum force of 11,110 Newtons to be transferred to the driver during a collision, but the new rules mandate more comprehensive testing, essentially making it difficult for open steering wheel designs to comply. This move is likely to provoke discussions on the feasibility and practicality of existing car designs in light of evolving standards.
Additionally, safety concerns have been raised regarding the open steering wheel's impact on airbag deployment. The design may hinder a proper circular expansion of the airbag, potentially endangering drivers during a crash situation. This legislative initiative is poised to reshape the automotive landscape, pushing manufacturers to innovate and adapt their designs to align with the new safety commitments while preserving driver safety in the increasingly competitive electric car market.
