Nikola Motors has issued a recall for up to 95 Tre hydrogen fuel cell electric semis due to concerns that incorrect bolts may have been used to mount their hydrogen tanks, according to a notice from the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
The recall, which comes just a week after the company filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, affects 2024-2025 model year Tre FCEV Class 8 trucks built between August 30 and September 16, 2024.
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Nikola cited process control issues during vehicle assembly as the reason for the incorrect bolts, which may be too long and could damage the hydrogen tank, increasing the risk of a leak and potential fire.
The company said it is not aware of any leaks caused by the issue and emphasized that monitoring and safety systems are in place to detect any hydrogen leaks. Affected owners will begin receiving recall notices by mail on March 15, 2025, and Nikola dealers will inspect and replace the bolts, as well as the hydrogen tank if necessary, free of charge.
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Nikola is also facing ongoing challenges with a previous recall involving its battery-electric semi-trucks. A January 31, 2025, NHTSA report states that nearly 100 BEV 2.0 trucks remain unrepaired following a 2023 recall related to battery pack issues.
The company has repaired 320 trucks since the recall was announced last summer, but 98 units remain unaddressed. In response, Nikola has since switched to a new battery supplier using a redesigned battery system.
Source: Cleantrucking