Tesla to issue over-the-air software update for 8,700 EVs in China

China’s market regulator announced Friday that Tesla plans to send out a software update to fix a problem with rear cameras in 8,700 vehicles that could cause accidents.

The action, which involves 1,071 imported Model S and Model X vehicles and 7,629 Chinese-built Model 3 vehicles, is considered a product recall under Chinese regulations, regulators said. It was not immediately clear whether drivers would be required or eligible to return their vehicles to Tesla for a refund.

Some vehicles subject to the recall have unstable rear camera integrated circuit communication due to a software issue. This can affect a driver’s visibility when reversing, increasing the risk of vehicle collisions and creating a safety hazard, regulators say.

The software issue comes after Elon Musk’s electric vehicle company recently issued several over-the-air software updates to fix issues that prompted recall notices in the United States and China.

Tesla recalls 1.6 million EVs in China due to safety concerns

Earlier this month, Tesla recalled more than 1.6 million EV models exported to China due to problems with auto-assisted steering and door latch controls. Tesla Models S, X, 3, and Y manufactured in China between 2014 and 2023 are affected.

According to the Associated Press, in a notice issued by China’s State Administration for Market Regulation, if auto-steering functions are activated in these vehicles, drivers may misuse the combined driving functions, increasing the risk of accidents. It has been stated.

Senators call on Tesla to recall electric vehicles after ‘warning’ report.Automaker says allegations are false

A staff member looks at Tesla’s new Model 3 sedan displayed next to the Model X SUV at the China International Trade in Services Fair (CIFTIS) held in Beijing, China on September 2, 2023.Reuters/Florence Loh (Reuters/Florence Lo/Reuters Photo)

The announcement comes after a similar recall occurred in May. The company took over approximately 1,104,000 vehicles. In China, regulators said drivers were now more likely to accelerate incorrectly and put themselves at risk of a crash in response to widespread alleged safety risks. The recall affected Tesla’s Model S, Model X, Model 3, and Model 6 vehicles.

Tesla has sought to expand car production by building new facilities at home and abroad, including a factory in China. Tesla operates a factory in Shanghai that can produce 22,000 cars. car unit Every week.

Tesla recalls more than 2 million vehicles in the US due to warning light issue

Tesla’s Model 3 is on display at an event ahead of the official opening of the 2023 Munich Auto Show IAA Mobility in Munich, Germany on September 4, 2023.Reuters/Angelica Warms (Reuters/Anjelica Warms/Reuters Photo)

In early December, more than 2 million Tesla owners in the U.S. Receive software updates over the air This was the result of a recall regarding the vehicles’ Autopilot feature, and later that same month, Tesla recalled 120,000 vehicles due to the risk of doors unlocking in the event of a crash.

According to its 2023 production and delivery report, Tesla exceeded its fourth-quarter delivery expectations and ended 2023 on a high note. The company delivered a record 484,507 units between October and December, achieving its 2023 goal of 1.8 million units.

CLICK HERE TO GET FOX BUSINESS ON THE GO

Deliveries in the fourth quarter were up about 11% compared to the third quarter, although some production was hit due to assembly line upgrades for the latest model 3, a mass-market sedan. I did.

FOX Business’ Timothy Nerozzi, Eric Revell, Michael Dorgan, Aislinn Murphy and Reuter contributed to this report.