Tesla stock was up more than 12 percent Tuesday afternoon on heavy volume after the company issued sales figures for the fourth quarter, with deliveries of 6,900 vehicles coming in 20 percent above guidance. The company also told reporters at the Detroit auto show that it expects its global sales and service footprint to double in 2014, calling the story for this year one of "reckless growth." Also Tuesday, federal safety regulators classified as a "recall" Tesla's move to provide upgraded wall adapters and charging software for up to 29,222 owners of 2013 Model S vehicles, citing the risk of fire. Last Friday, the electric car maker said it was providing customers with the new adapter and software upgrade to prevent overheating of its charging systems.

Tesla Model S Source: Tesla Motors

"An overheated adapter, cord, or wall receptacle, increases the risk of burn injury and/or fire,'' according to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration documents.

Tesla never used the words "recall" or "fire" in Friday's announcement, and cars will not have to be physically brought in for repairs.

In an interview on CNBC's Closing Bell, Tesla CEO Elon Musk says the word "recall" shouldn't apply in this case, as the remedy for the Model S cars can be made without taking the car in to the shop.