Wednesday, August 25, 2026 - China has ordered Tesla to recall about 2.98 million vehicles over concerns that hidden emergency door handles could make it difficult for occupants to escape after a serious crash.
The recall covers China-made and imported Model 3, Model Y, Model S and Model X vehicles, making it one of Tesla’s largest safety actions in the country.
The safety concern becomes critical if a collision causes the vehicle’s electrical system to fail.
Regulators say the concealed handles may be difficult to identify or operate, potentially delaying an occupant’s escape or preventing rescuers from opening the doors from outside. Tesla will address the issue with warning labels and an over-the-air software update designed to lower the windows after a collision.
The recall is part of a wider Chinese crackdown on concealed door-handle designs, with more than 4 million vehicles from several manufacturers affected by related safety measures.
China is also moving toward a ban on hidden door handles for new vehicles, putting pressure on automakers to prioritize emergency access over minimalist design. For Tesla, the action is a major reminder that innovation in electric vehicles must keep pace with safety expectations.
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