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China automotive R&D and safety regulation proposals

Updated 3 times since CLSTR started tracking revisions of this situation.

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2026-10-24 23:13 UTC → 2026-10-25 05:48 UTC · added ~~removed~~

Four Chinese government departments, including the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), have released draft guidelines to tighten the management of automotive innovation, R&D testing, and safety standards. The measures aim to curb the production of ‘quick-fix cars’—vehicles brought to market with insufficient testing to secure market share. The proposed regulations mandate strict reliability and durability testing, including a minimum of 30,000 kilometers of road testing and a one-year environmental adaptation period. Starting January 1, 2027, new products must meet 51 additional technical parameters. Safety restrictions target specific innovative designs, such as prohibiting fully hidden door handles and restricting the use of ‘zero-gravity’ or rotating seats while a vehicle is in motion. Expanding on these safety concerns, the MIIT is reviewing the impact of distracting technologies. Authorities are considering rigorous assessments for large infotainment touchscreens, secondary displays, and heads-up displays (HUDs) regarding driver safety, crashworthiness, and reliability under extreme conditions. A blanket ban on flexible or folding displays may be implemented, a move that could impact tech-focused brands. Under the proposed GB 4094 standard, manufacturers may be required to provide physical buttons for approximately 19 essential functions, such as turn signals, windshield wipers, headlights, and ~~regulators~~ gear selection. Regulators are also investigating the use of voice commands for critical safety functions, such as operating headlights, doors, or ~~hoods. Additionally,~~ hoods, and scrutinizing customizable LED daytime running ~~lights remain under scrutiny.~~ lights. If enacted, all vehicles manufactured from January 1, 2027, must ~~comply with these new standards, and~~ comply, while existing models may be required to meet specific requirements. Following these proposals, the MIIT, the Ministry of Public Security, the Ministry of Ecology and Environment, and the State Administration for Market Regulation held a symposium with representatives from over 30 major automakers. Authorities urged companies requirements by July 1, 2027, to ~~resist ‘irrational competition’ and prioritize safety through enhanced R&D and testing protocols.~~ avoid potential recalls or production halts.

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