Nine automakers, including Tesla, are set to recall around 4.3 million vehicles in China due to concerns over the accessibility and operation of concealed or emergency door-release handles during accidents or electrical failures. Tesla is the primary contributor to this recall, with approximately 2.98 million cars being affected. This involves imported and locally manufactured Model 3, Model Y, Model S, and Model X vehicles, with the recall process scheduled to commence on September 25.
The identified problem centers around the possibility that emergency mechanical door-release handles might be hard to find or use following a severe collision, potentially hindering occupants from exiting the vehicle or delaying rescuers’ access. The proposed solutions for the affected vehicles range from applying warning labels and enhancing markings to implementing over-the-air software updates.
Aside from Tesla, other significant recalls include roughly 390,000 vehicles from Xiaomi, 371,000 from Leapmotor, and 264,000 from Xpeng, highlighting a broader industry issue. These recalls underscore the increasing scrutiny on vehicle safety standards in China as authorities focus on improving passenger safety in crisis situations.
In response to the growing safety concerns, China has decided to strengthen vehicle safety regulations and intends to prohibit the use of concealed door handles starting in 2027. This move reflects the country’s commitment to enhancing passenger safety amidst rising incidents where emergency exits may be compromised.