Xin Lang Cai Jing·2026-02-11 04:18Core Viewpoint - The recent recalls by NIO and Zeekr highlight the increasing regulatory scrutiny in the Chinese automotive industry, particularly regarding software issues and the management of older vehicle models [2][5][6] Group 1: NIO's Recall - NIO is recalling 246,200 ES8, ES6, and EC6 electric vehicles produced between March 16, 2018, and January 16, 2023, due to software issues that may cause temporary blackouts of the instrument panel and central control screen, posing safety risks [1] - The recall represents approximately 85% of NIO's total sales of 289,300 vehicles from 2018 to 2022 [1] - The recall is initiated under regulatory intervention, indicating a shift towards stricter oversight of OTA upgrades and vehicle safety management [2] Group 2: Zeekr's Recall - Zeekr is recalling 38,300 units of specific Zeekr 001 WE models produced between July 8, 2021, and March 18, 2024, due to potential safety hazards related to battery performance [1][3] - The recall follows a settlement between battery supplier Aisin Wanda and Geely's subsidiary, which involved a significant reduction in the compensation amount from 2.314 billion yuan to 608 million yuan [3] - Zeekr will conduct inspections and provide free battery replacements for affected vehicles, ensuring that the original warranty policies remain intact [3][4] Group 3: Industry Trends - The recalls reflect a new trend in the Chinese automotive industry where recalls are increasingly viewed as a measure of compliance and quality governance rather than merely a crisis response [4][5] - Regulatory tightening has led to a significant decrease in the number of OTA upgrades, with a reported reduction in upgrade frequency as companies reassess their compliance processes [5] - In 2024, 92% of recalls in China were initiated by companies voluntarily, marking a 37 percentage point increase since 2020, indicating a proactive approach to risk management and responsibility [5][6]