Tesla is initiating a recall of over 1.6 million electric vehicles, including Model S, X, 3, and Y models, exported to China due to issues with their automatic assisted steering and door latch controls. China’s State Administration for Market Regulation made the announcement on Friday, stating that Tesla Motors in Beijing and Shanghai would address the problems through remote upgrades, minimizing the need for car owners to physically visit Tesla service centers.
The recall specifically addresses concerns with the automatic steering assist function in 1.6 million imported Tesla models. The notice highlights the potential risk of accidents when drivers misuse the combined driving function while the automatic steering is engaged.
In addition, the recall targets the door unlock logic control in imported Model S and Model X electric vehicles, affecting 7,538 vehicles manufactured between October 26, 2022, and November 16, 2023. This measure aims to prevent door latches from unintentionally opening during collisions.
This move follows a similar recall in the United States last month, involving more than 2 million Tesla electric vehicles, focused on enhancing the driver monitoring system. The recall was prompted by a two-year investigation by the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, which identified defects in the system linked to a series of accidents, some of which were fatal, occurring while the Autopilot partially automated driving system was in use.
Tesla’s upgrades aim to encourage Autopilot users to maintain a closer focus on the road. While the company’s documents submitted to the U.S. government outline online software changes that increase warnings and alerts to keep hands on the steering wheel, investigations by entities such as the NHTSA and the National Transportation Safety Board suggest that measuring torque alone may not guarantee sufficient driver attention.
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China holds significant importance as both a market and manufacturing hub for Tesla. CEO Elon Musk has cultivated strong relationships with Chinese officials despite strained U.S.-China relations. Tesla established an electric vehicle plant in Shanghai in 2019, producing cars for China, Europe, and other international markets. In the rapidly growing Chinese electric vehicle market, Tesla ranks as the second-largest seller, with BYD holding the top position.
