Tesla is recalling approximately 2.98 million vehicles in China, encompassing both China-made and imported electric vehicles, due to safety risks associated with the door handles. The recall includes Model 3, Model Y, Model X, and Model S vehicles, according to China’s State Administration for Market Regulation.
This action marks the largest recall of the year in China, according to local media reports. It follows a February announcement by Chinese authorities indicating a ban on hidden car door handles, a feature common on Tesla models and many Chinese electric vehicles, starting next year. Chinese regulators have increased scrutiny on flush-mounted door handles following a number of accidents in the country and elsewhere where the electronic door mechanisms failed, potentially trapping occupants inside.
The regulator cited a safety risk where, in extreme situations like a severe collision causing electrical system failure, the car handles could impede occupants' ability to quickly exit the vehicle or prevent rescuers from accessing the car from the outside. Tesla plans to address these risks through software updates.
Beyond Tesla, other automakers are also conducting substantial recalls. Xiaomi is recalling over 390,000 vehicles, while Hangzhou-based Leapmotor is recalling more than 370,000 cars. Geely and XPENG are among other Chinese carmakers also recalling some of their models, with similar reasons cited primarily concerning door handle functionality.
According to the People's Daily, the official newspaper of China's Communist Party, this large-scale recall is framed as a comprehensive safety upgrade for existing vehicle models in anticipation of the 2027 ban on hidden door handles. The newspaper emphasized that competition in the rapidly evolving new energy vehicle sector should be driven not only by technological innovation but also by high safety standards.