Tesla recalls 3 million cars as part of China-wide push to stop hidden door handles
Tesla and ten other automakers are recalling nearly 3 million vehicles in China to address safety concerns regarding hidden emergency door releases. The recall involves installing warning labels and pushing software updates to ensure occupants can exit vehicles during emergencies.
Why it matters
This recall underscores the growing regulatory scrutiny over electronic door latches and the safety implications of modern automotive design.
Tesla is recalling just shy of 3 million vehicles in China as part of a nationwide effort to alert vehicle owners to hidden emergency door releases, which can trap occupants in the event of a crash or a fire.
Reuters reported on Friday that 11 carmakers in China are issuing recalls related to the problem. Nine manufacturers, including Tesla, will install warning labels on their vehicles that help occupants identify the emergency door releases. Xiaomi, Xpeng, and Geely brands Zeekr and Lynk & Co. are also recalling EVs. All 11 companies will also push software updates as part of the recall.
Manual door releases have become a problem in recent years as automakers like Tesla made electronic door latches the standard way of getting in and out of a car.
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