China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology is considering additional safety requirements for large infotainment displays, other in-car screens and head-up displays. The proposed assessments would examine whether displays distract drivers, how they perform in a crash and whether they remain reliable in extreme conditions. The plan does not automatically outlaw every large screen: restrictions could apply to equipment judged unsafe or unable to meet the requirements. Regulators are also proposing a ban on flexible and foldable vehicle screens.
The draft addresses other features as well. If adopted, zero-gravity seats with footrests could not be used while a vehicle is moving, and rotating or deeply reclining seats are also under scrutiny. Customisable daytime running light designs may face review. Regulators may also limit voice commands for safety-related functions such as headlights, door unlocking and opening the hood.
If approved, the requirements would apply to new vehicle models seeking type approval from January 1, 2027. Vehicles already on the market would have until July 1, 2027 to submit the required technical documents and test results. Models found to pose safety risks could face production suspensions or recalls. The rules remain a proposal, so their final form and effect on automakers’ use of large displays are not yet settled.