Tesla and 10 other automakers have recalled nearly 4.3 million vehicles in China over concerns that hidden door handles may be difficult to open in an emergency, according to Reuters. This is the country's largest automotive recall to date.

Tesla is being hit hardest, as the recall impacts nearly 3 million imported and China-made Model 3, Model Y, Model S and Model X vehicles. The company will install warning labels, free of charge, to identify the handles, as will eight other companies including Xiaomi. Many manufacturers are also issuing software fixes that automatically lower windows after a collision, potentially making it easier for passengers to escape.

China is banning concealed door handles outright in 2027, mandating mechanical releases on interior and exterior doors that can be operated without power. Such handles can be difficult to locate if electrical systems fail, as exemplified by a fatal Xiaomi sedan crash where bystanders were unable to rescue a trapped driver.

The US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has opened an investigation into Tesla's electronic door handles over the same safety risk. Design head Franz von Holzhausen said Tesla is working on combining electronic and manual release mechanisms into one button.