China has initiated its largest-ever automotive recall, with nearly three million Teslas included, over safety concerns related to retractable door handles. The recall, affecting a total of 2.98 million Chinese-made Teslas, addresses the risk that these minimalistic handles could be difficult to locate and operate in emergency situations.

The issue stems from the design of hidden door handles, popularized by Tesla and since adopted by other electric vehicle manufacturers. These handles retract seamlessly into the car's door panel and extend only when a driver approaches. While intended for a sleek aesthetic, the design has come under intense scrutiny following safety worries that occupants or rescuers might struggle to open doors quickly during emergencies, particularly if the vehicle's low-voltage system fails.

Tesla stated that the recalled Model 3, Y, S, and X vehicles are being addressed because the door handles' color can be too similar to the interior trim, potentially hindering identification and operation. To mitigate this risk, Tesla will equip the affected vehicles with warning labels and implement a software update designed to automatically lower the windows after a collision. The company has not indicated if a similar recall will extend to other global markets.

This mass recall extends beyond Tesla, also encompassing vehicles from Chinese automakers XPeng, Xiaomi, and Geely. The widespread adoption of hidden door handles followed their initial success with Tesla's Model S, with Chinese brands quickly replicating the feature. Experts suggest that the current measures, such as warning labels and software updates, may only offer a temporary solution to the underlying design challenge.

The safety implications of hidden door handles have been a growing concern. In China, two fatal crashes involving Xiaomi EVs raised suspicions that power failures prevented doors from opening, highlighting the critical need for reliable emergency access. This has prompted regulatory action, with Chinese authorities announcing a ban on hidden door handles.

Under new regulations set to take effect on January 1, 2027, vehicles sold in China must feature a mechanical door release mechanism accessible from both the interior and exterior. This move aims to ensure that occupants can always exit a vehicle, regardless of electrical system status.

Tesla's door handles have also faced scrutiny in the United States. Reports of the handles malfunctioning and trapping children inside vehicles led to an investigation by US safety regulators. In response, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has proposed the development of a new formal safety standard for all car manufacturers concerning door handle functionality.

It remains unclear if other international automotive markets will mandate similar recalls or safety standards concerning hidden door handles. The BBC has reached out to Tesla, XPeng, Xiaomi, Geely, and the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration for comment.