Tesla is recalling nearly three million electric vehicles in China over concerns that interior door handles could make it difficult for passengers to escape after a serious crash.
China’s State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR) said Tesla’s recall covers about 2.9 million domestically produced Model 3 and Model Y vehicles. The recall is due to begin on September 25.
The US electric vehicle maker is also recalling about 46,000 imported Model 3, Model X and Model S vehicles, according to the regulator.
SAMR said the affected vehicles have emergency mechanical handles that are similar in colour to the interior, potentially making them difficult to identify and operate during an emergency.
In some Model 3 vehicles, passengers must reach into a compartment inside the rear door pocket to locate a release cable and manually open the door.
The regulator warned that in severe collisions that cause the vehicle’s low-voltage system to fail, the design could affect passengers’ ability to quickly open the doors and escape or allow rescuers to gain access.
Tesla is separately recalling 2.7 million domestically produced Model 3 and Model Y vehicles over issues involving monitoring systems when drivers use steering-assist functions. It was not immediately clear whether some vehicles are covered by both recalls.
Chinese EV makers also affected
The recalls extend beyond Tesla, with eight Chinese carmakers filing similar safety recalls over interior emergency door mechanisms.
Xiaomi is recalling about 390,000 units of its 2024 SU7 series, while XPeng is recalling nearly 265,000 vehicles.
BAIC BluePark is recalling about 46,000 Arcfox Kaola electric vehicles over the lack of dedicated text prompts near the emergency mechanism on the right rear sliding door.
Geely is also recalling about 92,000 vehicles from its Zeekr luxury brand.
Several manufacturers have offered free warning labels near emergency handles, while some are planning remote software upgrades that can lower windows following a crash.
The recalls come as China prepares to ban hidden door handles on vehicles sold in the country from January 1, 2027.
The new rules will require vehicles to have both interior and exterior mechanical door releases.
Electronic door handles were popularised by Tesla following the 2012 launch of the Model S and have since become common among Chinese electric vehicle manufacturers seeking sleek, high-tech designs.
The handles fold into the vehicle’s body, helping to reduce aerodynamic drag while driving.
