Over 2.9million Teslas are recalled over hidden door handles that could TRAP drivers inside

TESLA is recalling nearly three million EV cars following safety concerns over its famous hidden door handles. Fears have been raised that doors on some of the vehicles will not open in an emergency. Tesla is to place warning labels on the recalled vehicles Credit: Newsday via Getty Images Hidden door handles are designed to fit inside the car’s door panel Credit: Alamy Stock Photo In a statement, Tesla said it was recalling some of its Model 3, Y, S and X vehicles in China due to door handles that are “difficult to identify and operate because their colour is similar to the interior trim”. The doors are only supposed to extend outwards when an owner approaches their vehicle. Sign up for The Sun newsletter Thank you! Tesla’s statement added this could prevent occupants or rescuers from quickly opening the doors in an emergency, such as during a “severe collision causing the vehicle’s low-voltage system to fail”. The firm said it will place warning labels on the recalled vehicles and issue a software update to automatically lower a vehicle’s windows after a collision. The Sun has contacted Tesla for further comment. Other firms recalling vehicles over the issue in China include Xpeng, Xiaomi and Geely. In February, Chinese authorities announced a ban on hidden door handles. Under new rules due to take effect on January 1 next year, cars will only be allowed to be sold in China if they have a mechanical release on both the inside and outside of their doors. Most read in Motors US safety regulators have also been investigating Tesla’s door handles after reports that they suddenly stopped working, leaving children trapped in the cars. The Sun has approached Xpeng, Xiaomi and Geely for comment. Comment now