China introduces new safety regulations for vehicle interior designs

China's Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, along with three other departments, has issued a draft notice to tighten regulations on automotive innovation and design. The move aims to curb the trend of manufacturers prioritizing flashy, non-essential features over passenger safety.

Key targets for regulation include oversized central control screens, large-area displays, and complex Augmented Reality Head-Up Displays (HUD). Manufacturers must now submit safety assessments regarding driver distraction, reliability in extreme temperatures, and the risk of component fragmentation during collisions. The draft also proposes bans on foldable and flexible interior screens due to risks of material failure in extreme heat or cold.

Additionally, the regulations address customizable dynamic projection lighting. Authorities stated that vehicle lights must remain dedicated to illumination and signaling to prevent distracting other drivers and pedestrians. This follows previous regulatory actions against hidden door handles and zero-gravity seats, which were identified as potential safety hazards in collision scenarios.