Branddangerous - Stellantis recalls 24,000 Chrysler-vehicles due to faulty batteries
Stellantis calls back over 24,000 Plug-in-Hybrid minivans worldwide, model Chrysler Pacifica, due to potential fire risk. Owners were asked to park their cars outside and away from buildings until the issue is addressed.
Stellantis is aware of seven incidents involving vehicles that were parked and some that occurred during charging. The company announced this on Thursday. Four people also reported symptoms related to smoke inhalation.
Stellantis warns: Do not charge Chrysler batteries new
According to Stellantis, these incidents are related to a rare deviation in individual cells of the battery pack. The risk decreases if the battery charge is depleted, it was stated. Owners are also advised against recharging the batteries.
Stellantis is working on a software update to detect the anomaly. If it is found in the vehicles, new batteries will be installed. Affected models are from 2017 to 2021. Approximately 19,500 of the about 24,000 affected vehicles are registered in the USA.
Auto manufacturer pushes for more E-Mobility in the UK
In June, Stellantis recalled one million vehicles in the USA due to issues with rearview cameras, preventing the camera image from appearing on the displays. Dealers will update the radio software for free, according to the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Affected models include Dodge Durango (2021–2022), Chrysler Pacifica (2021–2023), Jeep Grand Cherokee L (2022), Ram 1500, 2500, 3500, Jeep Compass (2022–2023), Grand Cherokee, Wagoneer, Grand Wagoneer, and Ram Promaster.
One month later, 332,000 US vehicles from Alfa Romeo, Jeep, and Fiat were recalled due to faulty safety belt sensors, which can prevent the airbag from deploying as intended.
In Great Britain, Stellantis puts its production to the test. Like other automakers, Stellantis urges the UK government to offer tax incentives to consumers and expand the charging infrastructure for electric vehicles. The decision on the future of Stellantis production in the UK is expected to be made "within less than a year," according to Stellantis CEO Maria Grazia Davino in the UK. "There will be consequences in the UK," the manager said. "Stellantis UK will not stop, but Stellantis production in the UK could be halted."
Stellantis is temporarily halting battery replacements for Chrysler Pacifica minivans in the United Kingdom due to the ongoing safety concerns related to the battery issue. Chrysler LLC, a subsidiary of Stellantis, is still advising owners of these vehicles not to charge their batteries until the software update becomes available.
