Nearly 3M Teslas recalled in China over hidden door handles

In a significant recall affecting over 4 million vehicles, Chinese authorities have mandated the recall of nearly 3 million Tesla cars due to hidden door handles posing safety risks. These minimalist retractable door handles, once a signature feature of electric vehicles, have now come under scrutiny for being difficult to locate and open, especially in emergency situations.

The recall encompasses Tesla's Model 3, Y, S, and X models, manufactured in China. Other Chinese automakers, including XPeng, Xiaomi, and Geely, are also affected. Hidden door handles, designed to blend seamlessly with car interiors, extend outwards only when needed, but their color similarity to interior trim has raised concerns.

Two fatal crashes in China involving Xiaomi EVs led to investigations into low-voltage system failures, which could hinder occupants or rescuers from quickly opening doors. Tesla stated it will place warning labels on the affected vehicles and release a software update to automatically lower windows after collisions. However, it remains unclear if the impacted companies will initiate similar recalls globally.

Chinese authorities had previously banned hidden door handles, with new rules set to take effect in China on January 1, 2027, mandating mechanical releases on both sides of doors. US safety regulators are also probing Tesla's door handles, following reports of sudden malfunctions leaving children trapped in vehicles. A potential new safety standard for all carmakers is under consideration by the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.