Tesla recalls 300_000 cars in China over cruise control safety issue

Elon Musks Tesla began recalling more than 285_000 vehicles in China on Saturday over a safety risk concerning the vehicle's cruise control feature.

The cruise control system in certain models can be activated when drivers try to shift gears or accidentally touch the gear selector_ resulting in accidental acceleration_ according to China's State Administration for Market Regulation.

The recall includes 35_665 imported Model 3 vehicles and 249_855 Model 3 and Model Y vehicles made in Tesla's factory in Shanghai. Customers will not be required to return the vehicles. Instead_ they will receive a free software update either remotely or in-person to resolve the issue.

Tesla apologized for the recall on Saturday in a statement posted on its official Weibo account_ one of China's most popular social media sites. Tesla said it will keep improving in accordance with China's safety regulations.

"We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause to our car owners. In the meantime_ Tesla will strictly follow national regulations and keep improving our safety protection_ adamantly providing an excellent and safe driving experience to our customers_" the automaker said.

China has proven to be a difficult market for Tesla. The company has had five Chinese regulatory agencies questioning the quality of its Shanghai-made Model 3 cars.

The electric car leader sold fewer than 26_000 cars in China in April_ down 27% from March_ according to figures released by the China Passenger Car Association. The drop came as Chinese electric vehicle manufacturers such as Nio (NIO)_ Xpeng_ and Li Auto_ all reported improved domestic sales.