China orders 4-million EV recall over hidden door handles, Tesla hit hardest
China has ordered a mass recall of more than four million electric vehicles. Regulators cited hidden door handles that can be difficult to open in an emergency, the BBC reported on August 24.
More than 10 automakers are affected. Tesla accounts for the largest share, with nearly three million of the recalled vehicles.
The recalled handles are designed to sit flush with the door panel, extending only when a vehicle senses its owner nearby. But the design drew scrutiny after a serious accident in which a driver was unable to open the door.
Tesla said it is recalling its Model 3, Y, S and X vehicles because the handles are hard to see and use. It said their colour closely matches the car’s interior trim.
The company said it will update its vehicles to automatically lower the windows if they detect a crash.
China banned hidden door handles on new electric vehicles in February. The rule does not take effect until January 1, 2027. It remains unclear whether the rule will affect electric vehicles sold outside China.
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