What's Happening?
Stellantis has announced a recall of 375,000 plug-in hybrid Jeep Wrangler and Grand Cherokee SUVs due to a risk of battery failure that has led to 19 reported fires. The recall affects models from 2020
to 2025 for the Jeep Wrangler 4xe and from 2022 to 2026 for the Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe. The company has advised owners to park their vehicles outdoors and avoid charging them until a solution is implemented. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has been informed of the issue, which has resulted in one injury. The batteries, manufactured by Samsung SDI, have been identified as the source of the problem, with separator damage and complex interactions within the battery cells being the likely cause. Stellantis is working on a remedy, and vehicles previously repaired in 2023 and 2024 will require additional fixes.
Why It's Important?
This recall is significant as it affects a large number of vehicles, with approximately 320,000 of them located in the United States. The potential for battery fires poses a serious safety risk to consumers, prompting Stellantis to take precautionary measures. The recall also highlights ongoing challenges in the automotive industry related to battery technology and safety, particularly as more manufacturers shift towards electric and hybrid vehicles. The involvement of Samsung SDI, a major battery supplier, underscores the importance of quality control in the supply chain. The recall could impact consumer confidence in hybrid and electric vehicles, potentially affecting sales and market growth in this segment.
What's Next?
Stellantis is expected to provide a remedy for the affected vehicles soon. In the meantime, vehicle owners are advised to follow the company's guidance to prevent potential fire hazards. The NHTSA will likely continue to monitor the situation closely, and further investigations may be conducted to ensure the safety of these vehicles. The outcome of this recall could influence future regulatory measures and safety standards for hybrid and electric vehicles. Additionally, Samsung SDI may need to address the identified battery issues to prevent similar incidents in the future.
