Jaguar I-Pace Recall: Electric SUVs Face Fire Risk
Rotterdam, Monday, 2 September 2024.
Jaguar recalls 2,760 I-Pace electric vehicles from 2019 due to potential battery fire hazard. Owners advised to park outdoors and limit charging to 80%. Problem linked to LG Energy Solutions battery cells, echoing earlier Chevrolet Bolt issues.
Background of the Recall
Jaguar has issued a recall for 2,760 of its I-Pace electric vehicles from the 2019 model year due to a risk of high-voltage battery fires. The issue is traced back to the battery cells, which were supplied by LG Energy Solutions. This recall echoes similar problems faced by the Chevrolet Bolt in 2021, which also utilized LG batteries and had to recall approximately 100,000 vehicles globally due to fire risks.
Details of the Problem
The problem with the Jaguar I-Pace vehicles centers around the anode in the battery, which has been identified as potentially having folded tabs. These defective tabs can lead to overheating and, in some cases, fires. To date, three fires have been reported in the United States following software updates, which Jaguar acknowledges did not provide adequate protection for the affected vehicles.
Interim Measures and Advice
Jaguar’s interim response includes a software update to limit the battery’s maximum charge to 80%. This measure is intended to reduce the risk of the battery overheating. Additionally, Jaguar advises owners to park their vehicles outdoors and away from structures and to charge them outside for 30 days post-recall. This precautionary step is aimed at minimizing the potential damage in case a vehicle catches fire.
Comparisons to Prior Incidents
The recall situation with the Jaguar I-Pace is reminiscent of the Chevrolet Bolt’s recall in 2021. The Bolt’s issues, also linked to LG Energy Solutions’ batteries, involved defective separators and anode tabs. That recall resulted in a comprehensive replacement of the Bolt’s batteries, costing General Motors over $1.8 billion. While Jaguar’s recall is currently less extensive, it underscores the ongoing challenges faced by electric vehicle manufacturers in ensuring battery safety.
Future Steps and Customer Support
Jaguar is actively working with the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and LG Energy Solutions to address the issue. Owners of the affected vehicles will receive notification letters by October 18, 2024, with further instructions. Jaguar’s customer service is available for additional support, and the company is committed to developing a final remedy to ensure long-term safety for its customers.