Tesla, along with eight other automakers, is set to recall nearly 4.3 million vehicles in China due to concerns over the functionality and accessibility of concealed or emergency door-release handles during accidents and electrical malfunctions. This significant recall highlights growing safety concerns regarding passenger escape routes in emergencies.
Tesla’s portion of the recall is substantial, affecting around 2.98 million vehicles, including imported and domestically manufactured Model 3, Model Y, Model S, and Model X cars. The corrective process is slated to commence on September 25, as the company addresses the identified issues. Solutions for the vehicles may include enhancements such as warning labels, improved markings, or over-the-air software updates, aiming to ensure that emergency mechanical door-release handles are easily identifiable post-collision.
In addition to Tesla, other automakers are also conducting significant recalls. Xiaomi is recalling approximately 390,000 vehicles, while Leapmotor and Xpeng are recalling around 371,000 and 264,000 vehicles, respectively. These recalls underscore the industry’s response to regulatory concerns about passenger safety and the effectiveness of emergency exits in urgent situations.
China is intensifying its focus on vehicle safety, with plans to prohibit concealed door handles starting in 2027. This regulatory shift reflects a broader commitment to enhancing safety standards and ensuring that occupants can swiftly exit vehicles or be rescued following severe collisions. The move towards banning concealed handles is part of a larger effort to address potential safety hazards and improve emergency response outcomes.