Tesla, the American electric car giant, is facing a major setback in China as it is recalling over 1.6 million vehicles due to steering software and door-locking system issues. The recall affects models S, X, 3, and Y, as well as 7,538 imported vehicles. In order to fix the problems, Tesla will provide remote software updates, eliminating the need for owners to take their vehicles to dealerships or garages.
This recall comes shortly after Tesla recalled two million cars in the US due to autopilot software issues. In May last year, the Chinese regulator, the State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR), raised concerns about the acceleration and braking systems of over a million Tesla vehicles. Subsequently, Tesla discovered issues related to assisted driving functions and door locks.
The SAMR has classified this planned software update as a recall, despite it being conducted remotely. Tesla will release an over-the-air software update for a total of 1,610,105 vehicles, including imported Models S and X, as well as China-made Models 3 and Y produced from 2014 to 2023. The update aims to address problems with the autosteer function and reduce the risk of collisions.
The regulator explained that during this recall, drivers who activate the automatic assisted steering function may misuse the level two combined assisted driving function, thereby increasing the likelihood of a vehicle collision and posing a safety hazard.
Additionally, Tesla will also upgrade the software of 7,538 units of Models S and X in order to fix the issue of doors unlocking during crashes. This recent recall is another blow for Tesla in China, as local company BYD surpassed Tesla’s electric car sales worldwide in the last quarter of 2023. Furthermore, Tesla faced a similar recall in 2022, involving nearly 128,000 vehicles in China as a result of a rear motor inverter defect.
China is an important market for Tesla, with a large consumer base and significant government support through subsidies for electric and hybrid vehicles. The country has set ambitious goals to have a majority of cars powered by clean energy by 2035. Additionally, Tesla’s gigafactory in Shanghai – its first manufacturing plant built outside the US – plays a crucial role in meeting the demand for electric vehicles in China. In 2023 alone, the facility delivered 947,000 vehicles, according to state news agency Xinhua.
While these recalls may impact Tesla’s reputation and market share in China, the company’s prompt response in addressing the issues and providing remote software updates is commendable. It demonstrates Tesla’s dedication to ensuring the safety of their vehicles and providing a seamless customer experience, despite the complications caused by the recalls. Nonetheless, Tesla should be cautious and proactive in addressing any further issues to maintain its position in the competitive Chinese electric car market.
