Tesla Initiates Massive 16 Million Car Recall in China to Enhance Collision Safety Measures
Tesla recalls 16 million cars in China to enhance Autopilot safety, addressing concerns over collision risks Chinese regulator confirms the move, highlighting the company's commitment to rectify driver-assistance system issues
Tesla has announced a recall of 1.6 million vehicles in China to address issues with its Autopilot driver-assistance system and minimize the potential for collisions, a Chinese regulator reported on Friday.
The problems can be resolved through software updates that can be conducted remotely, as stated by Chinas State Administration for Market Regulation, the top market regulator in the country.
The Autopilot recall includes 1.61 million Tesla (TSLA) cars in the company's second largest market, consisting of imported Model S, Model X, and Model 3 sedans, as well as Chinese-made Model 3 sedans and Model Y SUVs. These vehicles were manufactured between August 26, 2014, and December 20, 2023. The regulator stated that in these vehicles, drivers may "misuse" the Autopilot functions, posing an increased risk of collisions.
Tesla is set to enhance the software system of these vehicles, which will involve the addition of controls and alerts to "further motivate the driver to fulfill their driving obligations," they stated.
Wang Chuanfu, chairman and chief executive officer at BYD Co., during an event at the company's dealership in Sao Paulo, Brazil, on Tuesday, October 10, 2023.
Victor Moriyama/Bloomberg/Getty Images
BYD, the Chinese EV giant, has surpassed Tesla. There is a second recall that affects 7,538 imported Model S sedans and Model X SUVs due to the risk of doors unlatching and opening during a crash. The affected vehicles were made between October 26, 2022, and November 16, 2023, according to a statement from regulators.
Tesla has issued a recall for its Autopilot feature, mirroring a move made in the US. In response to an investigation into approximately 1,000 crashes, Tesla has recalled nearly all 2 million of its cars on US roads and imposed limitations on the use of Autopilot. This setback hinders Tesla's efforts to appeal to buyers who are eager to pay extra for the convenience of having their cars drive for them.
