BEIJING, Aug 21 (Alliance News): Eleven automakers, including Tesla and Xiaomi, have launched vehicle recalls and software updates in China as part of the country’s largest-ever automotive recall campaign, with regulators tightening scrutiny of emergency door-release systems in electric vehicles (EVs).
The companies announced the measures on Friday following concerns that emergency mechanical door-release handles in some vehicles could be difficult for passengers or rescuers to locate or operate during emergencies.
The recall campaign comes as Chinese authorities increase oversight of the rapidly expanding electric vehicle industry and introduce stricter safety requirements for automakers.
Emergency door handles under scrutiny
Most of the recalls involve emergency mechanical door-release systems that are intended to allow occupants to exit a vehicle when the normal electronic door-opening system becomes unavailable.
According to regulatory filings, nine of the 11 automakers, including Tesla and Xiaomi, will install warning labels free of charge to make the emergency handles easier to identify.
Most of the affected manufacturers will also provide over-the-air (OTA) software updates as part of the corrective measures.
The measures are aimed at improving passengers’ ability to escape vehicles following serious accidents, particularly in situations where the electrical system has failed.
Tesla recalls nearly 3 million vehicles
Tesla is recalling around 2.98 million imported and China-made Model 3, Model Y, Model S and Model X vehicles, according to a statement from China’s State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR).
The recall is scheduled to begin on September 25.
According to the regulator, Tesla identified concerns that mechanical emergency door-release handles could be difficult to identify after a severe collision and electrical system failure.
Such a situation could potentially delay passengers trying to leave the vehicle or prevent rescuers from gaining access.
Tesla’s corrective measures include installing warning labels and providing an OTA software update designed to automatically lower vehicle windows following a collision.
The update is intended to provide an additional means of access in an emergency when conventional electronic door systems may not function.
Major recalls announced by several brands
The campaign involves a wide range of Chinese and international automakers.
At least six brands, including Tesla, Xiaomi, Leapmotor, Xpeng, Zeekr and Lynk & Co, announced their largest recalls on record on Friday, according to filings submitted to SAMR.
The scale of the campaign reflects growing regulatory attention to safety systems as Chinese automakers rapidly expand the use of new technologies in their vehicles.
China is the world’s largest automotive market and has become a major centre for EV production, with domestic manufacturers competing aggressively on technology, price and features.
China to phase out hidden door handles
The recall campaign also comes ahead of a major regulatory change concerning vehicle door design.
China is set to prohibit concealed or “hidden” door handles from 2027, making it the first country to move toward phasing out the design.
Hidden door handles became popular after being widely adopted by Tesla and subsequently used by numerous Chinese EV manufacturers.
The systems allow vehicle doors to be opened through key fobs, smartphones or press-operated mechanisms, depending on the model.
While the design has been promoted as a modern and aerodynamic feature, regulators have raised concerns about whether such handles can be easily accessed during emergencies.
Safety concerns grow with EV technology
The latest regulatory action highlights the challenges facing automakers as vehicles become increasingly dependent on electronic systems.
Modern EVs often use electronic controls for functions that were traditionally mechanical, including door locks, handles and other safety-related systems.
In a serious collision, however, electrical failures can complicate access to the vehicle. Regulators are therefore increasingly examining whether emergency mechanical systems remain visible, accessible and easy to operate.
The latest recalls are part of Beijing’s broader efforts to strengthen vehicle safety standards while China’s EV industry continues to expand.
The campaign also comes amid intense competition and a price war among manufacturers in the world’s largest auto market, pushing companies to introduce new technologies and features at an increasingly rapid pace.
