IBNS-CMEDIA: China has launched its biggest vehicle recall so far, affecting approximately 4.3 million cars made by Tesla and several Chinese automakers amid concerns that emergency door-opening mechanisms may be difficult to find or use when needed.
The recall includes around 2.98 million Tesla vehicles manufactured in China or imported into the country. The affected models include the Model 3, Model Y, Model S and Model X.
The safety issue centres on emergency door-release mechanisms that can be difficult to locate or operate, particularly when a vehicle’s electrical system is disabled following a crash.
Tesla popularised the flush door-handle design, which allows the handles to sit almost level with the vehicle’s exterior. They generally extend outward when the vehicle detects the owner’s approach or when the door is unlocked.
Several Chinese EV manufacturers have adopted similar designs. The broader recall reportedly also involves companies including Xiaomi, XPeng, Leapmotor and Geely, bringing the total number of affected vehicles to more than 4 million.
The issue has attracted increased attention in China following fatal crashes involving electric vehicles, with concerns raised over whether concealed handles could make it harder for occupants or rescuers to open doors after an accident.
Chinese authorities have also moved to tighten regulations surrounding vehicle door handles. From 2027, new rules are expected to restrict fully concealed door-handle designs on vehicles sold in China.
It remains unclear whether the affected manufacturers will introduce similar recall measures for vehicles sold in other international markets.
