Tesla Recalls Nearly 3 Million Vehicles in China Over Door Handle Risks
China's market regulator announced a recall of over 4 million vehicles, including nearly 3 million Teslas, due to risks from hidden door handles that could trap occupants in crashes.
Chinese authorities have ordered a massive recall of more than 4 million electric vehicles, including nearly 3 million Teslas, over safety concerns linked to hidden door handles. The action, announced on Friday by the State Administration for Market Regulation, covers Tesla's Model 3, Model Y, Model X, and Model S — both locally made and imported units.
The regulator cited a specific risk: in severe collisions that cause electrical failure, the flush door handles could prevent occupants from quickly opening doors to escape, and also hinder rescuers from gaining access from outside. Tesla will address the issue through software updates, according to the notice.
This recall is the largest in China this year, according to local media. It follows a February announcement by Chinese authorities that hidden door handles, common on many EVs, would be banned starting in 2027. The ban is part of a broader safety push after several accidents, both in China and abroad, where electronic doors failed and trapped passengers.
Other automakers are also affected. Xiaomi is recalling over 390,000 vehicles, Leapmotor more than 370,000, and Geely and XPENG have also issued recalls. The reasons are similar, mostly involving door handle issues.
The People's Daily, the ruling party's official newspaper, framed the recalls as a "unified safety upgrade" ahead of the 2027 ban. It added that competition in the new energy vehicle industry should be judged not only by innovation speed but also by safety standards.