Tesla Recalls 1.6 Million Cars in China to Address Autopilot Concerns and Enhance Safety
In a move aimed at improving the functionality of its Autopilot driver-assistance system and mitigating collision risks, Tesla is recalling 1.6 million vehicles in China, according to an announcement from China’s State Administration for Market Regulation on Friday.
The recall encompasses 1.61 million Tesla cars in China, spanning imported models such as the Model S, Model X, and Model 3 sedans, as well as domestically produced Model 3 sedans and Model Y SUVs. The affected vehicles were manufactured between August 26, 2014, and December 20, 2023.
The Chinese regulator highlighted concerns that drivers might “misuse” the Autopilot functions, potentially elevating the risk of collisions. To address these issues, Tesla plans to implement over-the-air software updates, reinforcing the safety features of the Autopilot system.
This action in China closely follows a similar recall in the United States, where nearly 2 million Tesla cars were recalled last month due to Autopilot-related safety concerns. The US safety regulator flagged instances of Autopilot being used in ways that heightened the likelihood of crashes, such as its application on local streets instead of limited access highways or when drivers were not fully attentive.
The software updates for the recalled vehicles in China will include additional controls and alerts designed to encourage drivers to adhere more closely to their driving responsibilities, as stated by the Chinese regulator.
In a separate recall affecting 7,538 imported Model S sedans and Model X SUVs, Tesla addresses the risk of doors unlatching and opening during a crash. These particular vehicles were manufactured between October 26, 2022, and November 16, 2023.
