China to ban 'incomplete' car steering wheels in new safety standard
The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology of China (MIIT) has released a draft national standard GB 11557-202X 'Driver Protection Requirements from Steering Mechanism Injuries'. The document will come into force on January 1, 2027. The new version of the document excludes steering wheels with a flat top (yoke).
What is known
The current standard GB 11557-2011, in the opinion of the regulator, does not meet the level of modern technology, especially considering the rapid growth of the electric vehicle segment in China. The updated version tightens a number of requirements.
In particular, the horizontal force during dummy tests has been reduced to 11,110 N - in accordance with the international regulation UN R12. More stringent restrictions have also been introduced on the upward and backward movement of the steering column during a collision. In addition, previous exceptions have been canceled: now all models are required to pass impact tests on human impact.
Yoke-type steering wheels face fundamental compliance problems. The new standard requires impact tests at ten points on the rim of the steering wheel, including 'the middle of the weakest section' and 'the middle of the shortest unsupported section'. Steering wheels without a top section physically lack such points, making compliance impossible.
According to Autohome, 46% of driver injuries in China are related to elements of the steering mechanism. A classic round steering wheel provides a more even distribution of load when the body moves forward. In the case of flat steering wheels, during a repeated impact, the body may 'slip' past the rim, increasing the risk of injury.
Special attention is paid to the safety of airbag deployment. The new standard prohibits the presence of rigid elements directed towards the driver when the airbag is deployed. Complex-shaped steering wheels may have unpredictable scenarios of plastic and metal parts breaking, complicating safety confirmation during tests.
Besides regulatory aspects, drivers report practical inconveniences. Unlike Formula 1 cars with minimal steering gear ratios, production vehicles require larger steering wheel turn angles during maneuvers such as turns and parking. Users note difficulties when steering with one hand and accidental touches of the dashboard screens.
After the standard comes into force in 2027, all new models will be required to meet the updated requirements to obtain type approval. For already approved vehicles, a transition period of about 13 months will likely be provided to make design changes.
Source: CarNewsChina
