An official investigation into a fatal crash involving a Xiaomi SU7 in China has confirmed previously reported details, highlighting how quickly critical safety access can become a life-or-death factor. Authorities determined that the 31-year-old driver died after he was unable to open the electrically operated doors once the vehicle caught fire following the collision.
Although the incident centers on a Xiaomi model, electronically actuated door systems have long been a subject of industry-wide debate across multiple global markets. The concerns extend beyond any single manufacturer.
The crash occurred at approximately 3:15 a.m. on October 13, 2025, in Chengdu, according to Carnewschina. The driver, identified only as Deng, was reportedly under the influence of alcohol. He collided with another vehicle on Tianfu Avenue South, then crossed over the central divider before the car ignited.
Timeline Of The Crash
Forensic findings referenced by the Chinese publication Caixin indicate that the SU7 was traveling at 203 km/h (126 mph) three seconds before impact. After striking the other vehicle, its speed dropped to 167 km/h (104 mph). It was still moving at 138 km/h (86 mph) when it hit the central divider.
Video footage from the scene showed bystanders attempting to break the driver’s side window and open the door in an effort to rescue him. Despite their efforts, they were unable to extract the driver before the fire intensified.
Investigators concluded that the doors could not be opened from the outside because the fire caused the low-voltage electrical system to shut down, which disabled the electronic door-release mechanism. According to the report, the SU7 does not feature externally accessible mechanical latches and instead relies entirely on electrically activated release buttons.
Inside the cabin, the vehicle also uses electronic release buttons. While mechanical emergency releases are present, investigators noted that identifying and operating them in the aftermath of a high-speed crash would likely be challenging, particularly for a disoriented occupant.
This incident, along with other similar cases, has led Chinese regulators to prohibit the use of electronic-only door handles on electric vehicles. The new regulation is scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2027.
Under the rule, exterior door handles must provide a physical handhold measuring at least 60 mm by 20 mm (2.36 inches x 0.79 inches) to ensure emergency responders can operate them. Additionally, internal mechanical releases must be clearly labeled with signage explaining how to use them in an emergency.
