The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology of the People's Republic of China has published a draft mandatory standard GB 11557-202X, which introduces new requirements for steering wheels. The document cancels exceptions for impact load tests and requires all models to undergo testing regardless of conditions.
The new standard concerns the protection of drivers from injuries caused by the steering mechanism. Now, automakers must conduct impact tests at ten points on the steering wheel rim, including the "middle of the weakest section" and the "middle of the shortest unsupported section."
Yoke steering wheels, which lack a top section, do not have a number of mandatory test points. This means that such designs will not be able to meet the GB 11557-202X standard.
According to Autohome, 46% of driver injuries in traffic accidents are related to steering mechanisms. Traditional round steering wheels provide a larger cushioning area when leaning forward, while non-standard designs increase the risk of injury.
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