Key facts
- China is recalling over 4.3 million vehicles from Tesla, Xiaomi, XPeng, and Geely due to issues with emergency door releases.
- The recall addresses concerns that hidden electronic door handles can be difficult to locate and operate in emergencies.
- New regulations in China, effective January 1, 2027, will ban the sale of new car models with exterior electronic handles lacking a manual release.
- Xiaomi's SU7 model was scrutinized after fatal crashes where occupants were allegedly trapped.
- Tesla is recalling nearly three million vehicles in China due to similar door handle issues.
China is taking a leading role in electric vehicle safety by mandating a massive recall of over 4.3 million vehicles from manufacturers including Tesla, Xiaomi, XPeng, and Geely. The recall addresses concerns over hidden electronic door handles that can be difficult to locate and operate in emergency situations, potentially hindering escape or rescue efforts.
The move comes ahead of new regulations set to take effect on January 1, 2027, which will ban the sale of new car models featuring exterior electronic handles without a traditional manual release mechanism. This positions China as a frontrunner in establishing global EV safety standards, outpacing the US and European Union in this specific area.
Several incidents have highlighted the potential dangers of concealed door handles. Xiaomi's SU7 model faced intense scrutiny following two fatal crashes in 2025 where occupants were allegedly trapped. Similarly, Tesla has faced lawsuits in the US concerning its Cybertruck's design, with allegations that passengers were trapped in a burning vehicle due to the electronic door opening system's failure.
Car industry analysts note that while these handles offer a sleek aesthetic and reduce wind drag, their usability can be challenging, even for experienced drivers. The Chinese regulators are requiring manufacturers to add warning labels inside vehicle doors to guide passengers on how to open them, and some vehicles will receive software updates to automatically lower windows in the event of a crash.
However, some engineers question the adequacy of these measures, pointing out that they do not mandate a mechanical release, which they argue is crucial for reliable emergency access. It remains uncertain whether similar recalls will be implemented outside of China, although regulators in the US and EU are reportedly reviewing the potential hazards associated with these designs.