Tesla is recalling around 3 million vehicles in China due to two safety issues related to electronically operated doorhandles and driver attention monitoring systems. The doorhandle recall addresses potential failures that could prevent occupants from escaping in emergencies, while the driver monitoring recall aims to enhance safety during the use of partially automated driving features.
Affected models include the Model 3, Model Y, Model S, and Model X, with production dates spanning from March 4, 2019, to April 29, 2026, for the doorhandles and until December 7, 2025, for the driver monitoring systems. This recall comes at a time when Tesla is facing increased competition from local manufacturers like BYD and Xiaomi, which are producing more affordable electric vehicles.
In July, Tesla's Model Y deliveries in China fell by 18% year-over-year, indicating a potential decline in market share. The recalls are part of a broader trend in the automotive industry, where regulatory scrutiny is increasing, particularly concerning safety features.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in the U.S. is also considering new regulations for vehicle egress systems, reflecting a growing emphasis on safety across the sector