**Nearly 3 Million Teslas Recalled in China Over Hidden Door Handles**
In a significant move impacting the electric vehicle (EV) market, Tesla has announced a recall of approximately 2.98 million vehicles in China due to safety concerns related to their minimalist hidden door handles. This recall is part of a larger initiative that affects over 4 million vehicles across various brands, marking it as one of the largest car recalls in the country’s history.
The recall stems from issues surrounding the design of retractable door handles, which have become a hallmark of modern electric cars. These handles are engineered to blend seamlessly into the vehicle's door panel, extending only when a person approaches the car. However, this design has raised alarms after reports indicated that the handles can be difficult to locate and operate, particularly in emergency situations.
The concerns were amplified following two fatal accidents involving Xiaomi electric vehicles, where it was suspected that power failures prevented the doors from being opened. In light of these incidents, Chinese authorities have intensified scrutiny on the safety of hidden door handles.
Tesla's recall specifically targets its Model 3, Model Y, Model S, and Model X vehicles. The company acknowledged that the door handles could be challenging to identify and operate, particularly because their color often closely resembles the interior trim of the vehicles. This similarity could impede both occupants and rescuers during critical moments, such as severe collisions that may result in a failure of the vehicle's low-voltage system.
To address these concerns, Tesla has committed to implementing several safety measures. The company plans to affix warning labels on the affected vehicles and will also issue a software update designed to automatically lower the vehicle's windows following a collision. This feature aims to enhance accessibility and facilitate quicker exits from the vehicle in emergencies.
The recall also affects other manufacturers, including Chinese automakers XPeng, Xiaomi, and Geely, though details regarding their specific responses to the recall have not yet been disclosed. It remains unclear whether these companies will extend similar recalls to their vehicles outside of China.
In February, the Chinese government announced a ban on hidden door handles, with new regulations set to take effect on January 1, 2027. Under these regulations, vehicles sold in China will be required to have a mechanical release mechanism for doors, both inside and outside, to ensure safety and ease of access.
Tesla's door handle design has previously come under scrutiny in the United States as well. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has investigated reports of door handles malfunctioning, which led to incidents where children were inadvertently trapped inside the vehicles. In response to these concerns, the NHTSA has suggested the development of new formal safety standards for car manufacturers to prevent similar issues in the future.
As the recall unfolds, the BBC has reached out to Tesla, XPeng, Xiaomi, and Geely for comments regarding their plans and responses to the situation. The outcome of this recall and the subsequent regulatory changes may have lasting implications for the design and safety standards of electric vehicles in China and beyond.
This recall highlights the ongoing challenges faced by the automotive industry as it navigates the balance between innovative design and safety. As electric vehicles continue to gain popularity, manufacturers will need to ensure that their advancements do not compromise the safety and accessibility of their products.