The recall of nearly three million Tesla electric vehicles (EVs) in China has been ordered by Beijing’s market watchdog due to safety concerns over door handles that could hinder passengers’ ability to exit in an emergency. This large-scale recall, involving the Model 3 and Model Y produced in China, as well as some imported Models 3, X, and S, is set to begin on September 25.
Tesla is not the only carmaker affected by this issue. Eight other Chinese EV manufacturers, including XPeng, Geely, Chery, and Leapmotor, have also initiated recalls for cars with handles that blend in with the interior. Some companies, like Xiaomi and XPeng, have already begun their recalls, while others, such as Geely, will start on Monday.
The concern arises from the sleek, integrated door handles that are popular among Chinese EV brands, including Tesla. These handles, while offering a slight boost in efficiency by reducing drag, can become nearly invisible in emergencies due to their similar color to the interior. In extreme situations, such as severe collisions, passengers may struggle to quickly open the doors using these handles.
Tesla is also recalling 2.7 million domestically-made Model 3 and Model Y EVs due to issues with monitoring systems while using steering assist functions. It is unclear if any vehicles are counted in both recalls.
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China’s plan to ban hidden door handles on cars from January 1, 2027, has been announced by the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, as part of efforts to enhance safety standards.
Tesla Recall Timetable
The Tesla recall in China is set to begin on September 25 and will affect nearly three million locally made units of the Model 3 and Model Y, as well as around 46,000 imported units of the Model 3, X, and S. The recalled cars have inner emergency mechanical handles that may be difficult to identify and operate in emergencies, potentially hampering passengers’ ability to quickly exit the vehicle in case of a severe collision.
In addition to the door handle concerns, Tesla is also recalling 2.7 million domestically-made Model 3 and Model Y EVs due to issues with monitoring systems while using steering assist functions. The recall timetable for this issue has not been specified.
Other Chinese EV Recalls
Several other Chinese EV manufacturers have announced recalls due to similar safety risks involving door handles that blend in with the interior. Xiaomi began recalling around 390,000 units of its 2024 SU7 series on Friday, while XPeng started recalling nearly 265,000 cars on Saturday. Beijing-based BAIC BluePark recalled around 46,000 Arcfox Kaola EVs due to a lack of dedicated text prompts near the emergency mechanism on the right rear sliding door. Geely is scheduled to start recalling around 92,000 cars from its luxury brand Zeekr on Monday.
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Companies offering to attach warning labels near the handles for free and remotely upgrade software involving lowering windows after a crash have been noted. However, the ultimate solution to this safety concern will likely involve redesigning these door handles to ensure they are easily visible and accessible in emergencies.
With the upcoming ban on hidden door handles and the recent mass recalls, Chinese authorities are pushing for stricter safety standards in the automotive industry.
As of now, there have been no reports of injuries or accidents directly related to these door handle issues, but the potential risks have prompted immediate action from both regulators and manufacturers.
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