Safety concerns reached a tipping point after several high-profile crash incidents left occupants unable to quickly exit burning vehicles
In China’s largest automotive recall to date, Tesla and eight rival carmakers are recalling roughly 4.3 million electric vehicles due to potential safety risks involving emergency door-release mechanisms. Regulators raised serious concerns that electronic and flush-fitting concealed door handles could leave passengers or emergency responders trapped during severe collisions accompanied by electrical system failures.
Tesla Leads Massive Multi-Brand Action
American EV pioneer Tesla makes up the bulk of the regulatory action, recalling nearly 2.98 million imported and domestically produced vehicles—including Model 3, Model Y, Model S, and Model X lines. Domestic Chinese EV brands are also facing significant participation in the recall:
- Xiaomi: Recalling over 390,000 electric vehicles.
- Leapmotor: Recalling approximately 371,000 units.
- Xpeng: Recalling around 264,000 vehicles.
- Geely & Others: Covering smaller volumes across various models.
Hidden Handles in the Crosshairs
Flush, flush-deploying, and touch-sensitive electronic handles—popularised globally by Tesla and widely copied by Chinese brands—have come under intense scrutiny from market regulators. When a vehicle loses power following an impact, mechanical manual release latches can be difficult to locate or operate. Safety concerns reached a tipping point after several high-profile crash incidents left occupants unable to quickly exit burning vehicles.
In response to these persistent risks, Beijing announced a complete ban on concealed door handles starting in 2027, making China the first nation to mandate traditional or easily accessible mechanical door mechanisms.