Government regulators have issued serious concerns over Tesla's electronic, retractable door handles, leading to the company's largest recall yet. The design has been criticized for making it difficult for passengers to exit vehicles quickly and hindering rescue efforts.

In response to these issues, China is recalling more than 2.9 million Model 3s and Model Ys manufactured between 2019 and 2026. Tesla will implement over-the-air software updates that lower windows after collisions, but many vehicles will also receive free warning stickers to help locate emergency mechanical door handles.

The Chinese government is not alone in its concerns; it has simultaneously recalled more than a million vehicles from eight other automakers for similar safety issues related to flush door handles. Additionally, nearly 50,000 imported Tesla models are being recalled due to insufficient monitoring of drivers using assisted steering technology, which can increase collision risks.

China's aggressive approach to regulating new automotive technologies is setting a precedent. Earlier this year, it banned fully retractable door handles and in 2021 issued stricter regulations for autonomous vehicles. The US Transportation Department has also begun examining whether new rules are needed for door handle design.