Recall Details
Volvo Cars is recalling more than 40,000 of its flagship electric EX30 SUVs because of a risk that battery packs could overheat and catch fire. The recall involves replacing modules in the high-voltage battery packs, a key model in Volvo's effort to compete with cheaper Chinese brands. The news was first reported by Reuters.
Affected Vehicles and Response
The recall covers 40,323 model year 2024-2026 EX30 Single-Motor Extended Range and Twin-Motor Performance cars equipped with the high-voltage cells. Volvo, a Sweden-based automaker majority-owned by China's Geely, is replacing affected units free of charge. Owners are urged to limit charging to 70% until repairs to mitigate the fire risk.
Our investigations have identified that in very rare cases, the affected vehicles can overheat when charged to a high level. In a worst-case scenario this could lead to a fire starting in the battery.
Scope and Costs
Of the total, 189 cars in the U.S. will be inspected and fixed if necessary. Volvo first notified EX30 owners in over a dozen countries including the U.S., Australia, and Brazil in December to park away from buildings and cap charging at 70%, per regulatory filings. A Reuters analysis estimates battery replacement costs at $195 million excluding logistics and repairs, which Volvo deems speculative as discussions continue with the supplier.
Supplier and Industry Impact
The batteries come from Geely-backed Shandong Geely Sunwoda Power Battery Co., with the supplier fixing the issue for new cells. Auto industry veteran Andy Palmer, who oversaw Nissan's Leaf EV launch, noted Volvo has less room for error given its safety reputation central to its brand.
Volvo can’t afford a safety issue because that strikes at the heart of their brand.
Next Steps
Volvo is contacting owners of affected cars to advise on recall steps.
