Volvo Cars has issued a global recall for nearly 73,000 plug-in hybrid vehicles due to a potential risk of short circuits in their high-voltage batteries when fully charged, the company confirmed. The recall affects multiple models produced between 2020 and 2022, including the S60, S90, V60, V90, XC60, and XC90 series.
The recall was initially reported by the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), which announced that 7,483 affected vehicles had been sold in the United States. However, Volvo Germany has since confirmed to German automotive publication Auto, Motor und Sport that the issue extends worldwide. Approximately 8,000 vehicles in Sweden and 4,825 in Germany are among those affected.
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The affected models are built on Volvo’s first-generation Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) platform, where batteries are positioned in the center transmission tunnel rather than under the boot floor. The issue stems from a potential manufacturing defect in battery modules supplied by South Korean manufacturer LG Energy Solution. According to Auto, Motor und Sport, the faulty modules were produced between June 2019 and November 2021, increasing the likelihood of a short circuit and fire risk.
“Volvo is taking precautionary measures to ensure customer safety. Owners of the affected vehicles are advised not to charge their cars until a battery inspection is completed at an authorized service center,” the company stated. As part of the recall, Volvo will check the batteries for defective cells and replace entire battery packs if necessary. Additionally, a software update for the battery management system will be installed to enhance defect detection.
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In Germany, affected vehicle owners will be notified by the Federal Motor Transport Authority (Kraftfahrt-Bundesamt, KBA). Volvo has not disclosed any reported incidents related to the issue but emphasized that the recall is being conducted as a preventative measure.
The recall comes amid heightened scrutiny of electric vehicle battery safety, with multiple automakers addressing concerns related to battery defects and fire hazards in recent years. Volvo, which has committed to becoming an all-electric brand by 2030, continues to emphasize the importance of safety as it transitions toward electrification.