transport · Bastillepost

Tesla Recalls Record 3 Million Cars in China Over Door-Handle Safety Issue

Bastillepost · 2 SOURCESabout 2 hours ago5 MIN

Summary

China's State Administration for Market Regulation has ordered a sweeping recall of electric vehicles from multiple manufacturers, with Tesla bearing the largest share at nearly 3 million cars. The core issue involves emergency mechanical door handles that blend in too closely with interior surfaces, making them hard to identify during critical moments. When severe collisions cause low-voltage system failures, this design flaw could prevent drivers and passengers from quickly escaping vehicles, or hinder rescuers from opening doors from outside. The recall marks an unprecedented move in China's EV market and signals stricter safety standards ahead.

Key Points

Tesla will recall 2.98 million vehicles total, including Shanghai-made Model 3 and Model Y, plus imported Model 3, Model X, and Model S
The recall begins on September 25, with Tesla offering free warning labels on internal door handles
Emergency mechanical door handles are nearly identical in color to interior panels, creating identification difficulty
Safety hazard emerges when collisions disable low-voltage systems, potentially trapping occupants inside
Tesla will conduct an over-the-air software update to lower windows automatically after a collision
Xiaomi recalls approximately 400,000 vehicles, Leapmotor召回 about 370,000, and Geely召回 about 90,000
Public safety concerns escalated after a October accident in Sichuan province where a 31-year-old man died in a burning Xiaomi SU7 Ultra

Why It Matters

This recall establishes a new safety benchmark for China's rapidly growing EV industry, forcing manufacturers to reconsider design priorities that prioritise aesthetics over emergency accessibility. Industry observers expect the regulatory pressure will drive systemic improvements in product safety standards across both domestic and international automakers operating in the Chinese market.