Tesla, along with eight other car manufacturers, is set to recall approximately 4.3 million vehicles in China due to worries that concealed or emergency door-release handles might be challenging to find or use in accidents or during electrical malfunctions. A significant portion of this recall involves Tesla, accounting for around 2.98 million vehicles, which include both imported and locally produced Model 3, Model Y, Model S, and Model X cars. The recall process is slated to commence on September 25.
The vehicles affected by the recall could undergo various remedial measures such as the addition of warning labels, enhanced markings, or over-the-air software updates. Regulatory authorities have expressed concerns that in the event of a severe collision, the emergency mechanical door-release handles may be difficult to locate. This issue could potentially hinder occupants from escaping or prevent rescuers from accessing the vehicle.
Among the other significant recalls are roughly 390,000 vehicles from Xiaomi, 371,000 from Leapmotor, and 264,000 from Xpeng. These recalls reflect the broader industry-wide response to the growing focus on vehicle safety standards in China.
In response to increasing apprehensions about passenger safety during emergencies, China has intensified its vehicle safety requirements. A significant regulatory change in the pipeline is the planned prohibition of concealed door handles starting in 2027. This move underscores the country’s commitment to enhancing passenger safety by ensuring that emergency exits in vehicles are more accessible.