China’s State Administration for Market Regulation has ordered the recall of 2.98 million Tesla vehicles. The move comes after regulators found that emergency mechanical door handles could be difficult to identify and operate. As a result, the recall targets vehicles equipped with these handles.

The recall covers China-built Model 3 and Model Y cars plus smaller numbers of imported Model S and Model X units. Production dates range from 2018 to 2026. Officials stated the handles “are difficult to identify and operate because their colour is similar to the interior trim.” In a severe collision that disables the low-voltage system, occupants may struggle to escape and external rescuers may face delays.

Tesla will apply warning labels inside the doors at no cost to owners. An over-the-air software update will automatically lower the windows after a collision. The campaign begins on 25 September 2026.

The Tesla action forms part of a wider Chinese campaign affecting about 4.3 million vehicles from nine manufacturers. Xiaomi is recalling more than 390,000 SU7 models. Leapmotor, XPeng, Geely and others are also included. The combined figure ranks among China’s largest automotive recalls.

Flush electronic door handles became common on electric vehicles because they improve aerodynamics while offering a sleek design. However, concerns over their usability in emergencies have grown. As a result, China plans to ban concealed exterior door handles on new cars from 2027. Meanwhile, state media has described the current recall as a safety upgrade ahead of the new rule.

Safety concerns rose after crashes in which power loss left occupants trapped. US regulators have examined similar complaints and lawsuits but have not ordered a comparable nationwide recall. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration indicated in July 2026 that new egress standards for all manufacturers remain under consideration.

Tesla has not issued a detailed public statement beyond the regulator filing. Owners in China will receive notices. No equivalent action has been announced for other markets at this time. The episode highlights the tension between sleek EV design and emergency egress requirements in the world’s largest electric-vehicle market.

Reference- Reuters, BBC, Electrek, Futurism