Nearly three million Teslas recalled in China over hidden door handles
Minimalistic door handles became a signature feature of electric vehicles (EVs), but the controversial designs are now at the centre of China's biggest car recall, affecting more than 4 million vehicles.
China is experiencing its largest car recall ever, impacting over 4 million vehicles, primarily Teslas. These vehicles, produced in China, feature hidden door handles that are drawing safety concerns. Other brands affected include XPeng, Xiaomi, and Geely. The recall has been prompted by the difficulty in locating and opening these handles during emergencies, especially when the vehicle's low-voltage system fails.
As a result, Tesla will affix warning labels to the affected vehicles and roll out a software update that automatically lowers the windows in case of a crash. This move is seen as a temporary fix rather than a comprehensive solution to the problem. China has already banned the use of hidden door handles, with new regulations scheduled to take effect in January 2027, requiring cars to have a mechanical release on both sides of the doors.
The issue has also drawn the attention of US safety regulators, who are considering introducing a new safety standard mandating emergency door-exit systems in all vehicles.
Written by urgent.news from MyJoyOnline Ghana's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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