Nearly 3 million Teslas could be recalled in China over door handles that do not comply with new safety rules introduced to help rescue workers save occupants after a crash. Specifically, 2.98 million Model 3 and Model Y vehicles may need adjustments to remain legal.
According to a report by Ars Technica, Chinese regulators have tightened regulations governing electronically controlled car doors after several incidents occurred where occupants could not be extracted from vehicles in time, leading to the loss of their lives, particularly when EVs catch fire after a crash.
From 2027, car companies in China will have to use specific door handle features and dimensions laid out by the regulators. New models must include a recessed space measuring at least 2.4 inches (6 cm) wide, 0.8 inches (2 cm) tall, and 1 inch (25 mm) deep, allowing an occupant to comfortably operate the door handle, whether it's a semi-flush design or a traditional handle, another report by Ars Technica revealed.
The locking mechanism must be designed in a way that, in the event of a crash that triggers airbag deployment or a battery fire, doors on the vehicle's non-impact side can be opened without tools. Chinese regulators are equally focused on preventing occupant confusion during emergencies, particularly around how to open a door from the inside. As a result, every door must feature a mechanical release positioned exactly where an occupant would instinctively expect to find it.
Tesla is reportedly not in compliance with these rules. While its front doors have always included mechanical handles, certain model years left rear passengers unable to open their doors without tools, a design choice that runs directly counter to what these new regulations aim to prevent.
For vehicles already approved by the Chinese government, which includes every model currently on sale, a grace period applies. Automakers have until January 1, 2029, to redesign the doors on these existing models, a deadline that reflects just how specific and demanding the new rules are.
China isn't letting Tesla off the hook that easily when it comes to the 2.98 million vehicles already in use across the country. Regulators are mandating that the automaker install warning labels inside these cars, a fix that will require owners to physically bring their vehicles in for service. On top of that, Tesla is set to roll out a software update designed to automatically roll down all windows whenever a collision is detected.
A separate recall in China is also underway, this time affecting 2.74 million Tesla vehicles. This action targets the driver monitoring system, which currently relies solely on a steering wheel torque sensor to determine whether the driver is attentive and keeping their hands on the wheel. Under the upcoming update, Tesla will instead tap into the interior cameras built into the Model 3 and Model Y to monitor drivers by tracking their eye movement.