Nine major automakers in China are initiating a recall of nearly 4.3 million vehicles because emergency door-release mechanisms are deemed too difficult to operate. Over 3 million of these affected vehicles belong to Tesla, making this the largest automotive recall in the country’s history.
According to reports from Reuters, regulators raised severe safety concerns regarding concealed mechanical door handles that passengers cannot easily locate or operate following a crash. The regulatory crackdown follows fatal incidents, including an October 2025 crash involving a Xiaomi SU7 where bystanders could not free the driver from the burning vehicle.
Regulatory Shifts and Modern Design Dilemmas
Concealed and flush-mounted door handles were popularized by Tesla to improve aerodynamics and deliver a sleek design aesthetic. However, safety authorities in Beijing have responded by becoming the first jurisdiction to ban flush-mounted door handles by 2027.
For the 2.98 million Tesla vehicles recalled starting September 25, remedies will include instructional warning labels and over-the-air software updates that automatically lower windows during collisions. Other major manufacturers, including Xiaomi with 390,000 units, Leapmotor with 371,000 units, and Xpeng with 264,000 units, are also issuing substantial recalls alongside Geely.
Additional Driver Monitoring System Recalls
In a separate action reported by Wired, China issued a recall for 50,000 imported 2019-2026 Model 3, Model X, and Model S vehicles. Officials determined that their driver monitoring technology was insufficient and potentially heightened collision risks, requiring software adjustments or complete camera replacements.
