Tesla will recall almost five million electric vehicles in China after regulators flagged safety concerns with emergency door mechanisms and driver attention systems. The recall affects both domestically produced and imported models.
Tesla faces a sweeping recall in China, with nearly five million electric vehicles set to be affected after authorities identified two critical safety issues. According to plans submitted to the State Administration for Market Regulation, the recall targets both domestically manufactured and imported vehicles, including the Model 3, Model Y, Model X, and Model S.
The first issue centers on the emergency door release systems in certain vehicles. Tesla explained that the mechanical emergency handles are difficult to spot and operate, as their color closely matches the interior trim. In the event of a severe collision that disables the low-voltage system, this design flaw could prevent occupants from escaping quickly and complicate rescue efforts. This recall will impact 2,975,910 vehicles, with the campaign scheduled to begin on September 25, 2026. Affected models include 973,156 domestically produced Model 3s, 1,956,713 Model Ys, and thousands of imported Model 3, Model X, and Model S units.
China has become the world's largest EV market, and this recall is unprecedented in scale for Tesla in the region.
To address the problem, Tesla will provide free warning labels for the affected vehicles and update the window control software via over-the-air (OTA) technology. The new software will enable automatic window lowering after a crash, improving the chances of a swift exit. Some vehicles already have the necessary labels and will not require further intervention.
The second recall, effective immediately, involves 2,740,642 domestically produced Model 3 and Model Y vehicles. Here, the concern is that the driver attention monitoring system may not adequately alert drivers to keep their eyes on the road when assisted steering or combined driver assistance features are active. Tesla will roll out a free OTA software update to mitigate this risk. The update will add an in-cabin camera to monitor driver attention and issue alerts, supplementing the existing steering torque monitoring system.
As noted by elespanol motor, these recalls underscore the growing scrutiny of electric vehicle safety in China, the world's largest EV market. The scale of the recall is unprecedented for Tesla in the region and highlights the challenges of balancing advanced technology with practical safety requirements.
China's regulatory approach to electric vehicle safety has become increasingly rigorous, reflecting the rapid adoption of EVs and the complexity of their systems. The move comes as other manufacturers also face pressure to improve safety standards. For example, the push for better driver monitoring and emergency systems is echoed in the European market, where new models are being evaluated for similar risks. Recent developments, such as the introduction of advanced hybrid SUVs, show how the industry is evolving to address these concerns—see how new safety benchmarks are being set in the segment with vehicles like the JAECOO 7 SHS Plug-In Hybrid.
For Tesla owners in China, the recall means a combination of physical modifications and software updates, with the aim of reducing risks in emergency situations and ensuring drivers remain attentive when using automated features. The company's response will be closely watched by regulators and consumers alike, as the industry continues to adapt to evolving safety expectations.
