Cutting corners? China SUV makers forego key safety feature

Chongqing Changan Automobile's CS75 SUV models are displayed at its booth during the Auto China 2016 auto show in Beijing, China, April 26, 2016. REUTERS/Kim Kyung-Hoon

BEIJING: In China's booming sport utility vehicle (SUV) market, many automakers are selling cars without electronic stability control (ESC) as a standard feature, potentially putting lives at risk from rollover accidents. 

SUV sales topped 6 million in China last year, a jump of more than 50% in an overall market that grew less than 5%, as drivers sought more room for their money. As China's economy weakens, price-conscious drivers have shifted from foreign brands to cheaper domestic SUVs.