Tesla and several domestic Chinese automakers have announced a recall of more than four million electric vehicles in China over door handle safety risks.
American manufacturer Tesla is recalling approximately 2.98 million electric vehicles, including both imported models and vehicles produced in China, according to the State Administration for Market Regulation. The affected Tesla lineup includes the Model 3, Model Y, Model X, and Model S, with regulators citing safety risks associated with their door handles.
Chinese press reported that the action represents the largest vehicle recall in China this year. It follows an announcement by authorities in February that hidden door handles, which are widely featured on Tesla vehicles and many Chinese electric models, will be banned starting next year ahead of full implementation in 2027.
Door handle failure risks
Chinese regulatory scrutiny over hidden or flush door handles has intensified following multiple traffic accidents in which electronic doors failed, trapping occupants inside the vehicles. A safety notice published on the website of China's market regulator highlighted that during extreme situations, such as a severe collision leading to an electrical failure, flush handles can prevent occupants from opening doors quickly and impede first responders attempting rescue operations.
Industry experts noted that vehicle manufacturers must prioritize passenger safety above aesthetic design. Tesla plans to deploy over-the-air software updates across the affected fleet to mitigate the door handle safety risks. The Austin-based automaker did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
Chinese rivals affected
Chinese electric vehicle makers are also taking action for similar door handle issues. Beijing-headquartered technology giant Xiaomi is recalling more than 390,000 vehicles, while Hangzhou-based automaker Leapmotor is pulling back more than 370,000 cars. Domestic manufacturers Geely and XPENG have also announced vehicle recalls citing comparable door handle safety concerns.
Industry reaction and policy standards
Cui Dongshu, head of the China Passenger Car Association, called the mass recall an inevitable step in the development of the electric vehicle market. He stated that manufacturers were demonstrating responsibility by choosing a reliable and safety-focused strategy. Cui noted that while the recalls reflect the growing pains of a rapidly expanding industry, they also mark a policy-driven upgrade to vehicle safety standards.
An article published by People's Daily, the official newspaper of the Chinese Communist Party, stated that the coordinated recall serves as a unified safety update for existing vehicles before the 2027 ban takes effect. The publication emphasized that competition in the fast-moving new energy vehicle market should be measured not only by technological innovation, but also by strict safety standards.
