China takes aim at 'zero-gravity' seats in EV draft safety rules
An employee works on the production line of electric vehicle (EV) battery manufacturer Octillion in Hefei, Anhui province, China on March 30, 2021.
PHOTO: Reuters
BEIJING — China flagged risks from so-called "zero-gravity" seats in draft safety rules for electric vehicles (EVs) issued on Tuesday (May 26) by the industry ministry, as it moves to tighten scrutiny of the fast-growing industry.
The "zero-gravity" seats, with backrests adjustable to steep reclining angles, are increasingly being installed in EVs, along with the rise of the intelligent cockpit.
"When these seats are in a semi-reclined position, occupant safety in a collision may not be guaranteed," the ministry said in a statement.
It is canvassing public comment until July 25 on the mandatory safety curbs for vehicle seats, head restraints and recycling efforts that include dismantling and crushing auto power batteries.
The new draft comes as regulators focus on EV safety after fatal accidents last year involving SU7 sedans from high-profile EV industry entrant Xiaomi.
This year, the ministry ordered a ban from 2027 on "hidden" car door handles that respond to a key fob, mobile phone or manual pressure.
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