Tesla Recalls 2.98 Million China Vehicles Over Hidden Door Handles as 4 Million Cars Are Hit
Updated
Updated · BBC.com · Aug 24
Tesla Recalls 2.98 Million China Vehicles Over Hidden Door Handles as 4 Million Cars Are Hit
3 articles · Updated · BBC.com · Aug 24
Summary
2.98 million China-made Tesla Model 3, Y, S and X vehicles are being recalled after the company said interior door handles can be hard to identify and operate in emergencies.
Tesla said the risk is greatest in severe crashes that disable the low-voltage system, potentially slowing occupants or rescuers trying to open doors; it plans warning labels and a software update to lower windows after collisions.
More than 4 million vehicles are covered by China’s broader hidden-handle recall, with XPeng, Xiaomi and Geely also affected after scrutiny intensified over emergency access.
China moved against the design after two fatal Xiaomi EV crashes and already banned hidden door handles in February, with rules from Jan. 1, 2027 requiring mechanical releases inside and outside doors.