LTA engaging dealers, manufacturers of Chinese EVs over vehicle door concerns

Singapore's Land Transport Authority (LTA) is consulting with dealers and manufacturers of Chinese electric vehicles about potential difficulties in opening vehicle doors in emergencies, according to a statement released on August 28. The authority expressed awareness of a recall exercise in China involving vehicles with electronic door systems that may not be easy to open in a crisis situation due to challenges in locating or using the interior mechanical emergency door releases.

The LTA stated that it routinely reviews vehicle safety standards to keep up with industry and technological advancements, including those concerning electronic door systems. There have been no recalls by authorized dealers in Singapore to date, nor has the LTA received any feedback from vehicle owners about difficulties operating the doors or accessing the mechanical emergency release.

Vehicles approved by the LTA featuring electronic doors already come equipped with mechanical failsafe features designed to allow occupants to open the doors from inside the vehicle in emergencies. The LTA advised vehicle owners who have concerns about their vehicles to reach out to their authorized dealers. It also reminded drivers and vehicle users to familiarize themselves with the vehicles they are using, particularly with the location and operation of the mechanical emergency release.