BEIJING - US electric car maker Tesla has launched a recall of hundreds of vehicles in China due to safety risks posed by defective bolts, China's top quality watchdog said on Thursday.

The recall involves 311 imported Model 3 vehicles manufactured between Jan 12 and Nov 20, 2019, as well as 423 imported Model 3 vehicles produced between Feb 2 and Nov 20, 2019, according to a statement from the State Administration for Market Regulation.

The automaker has promised to conduct tests on the recalled vehicles free of charge and replace defective parts, while advising users to drive carefully before their cars are fixed.