Audi e-tron GT Batteries Could Catch Fire, Leading to Recall
Certain e-tron GTs built at certain times pose a frightening risk of battery fire, according to a new recall from Audi.
Any new technology has teething issues. When it comes to high performance EVs, even established companies like Audi and Porsche can experience problems. Unfortunately, these issues can be dangerous to people and property.
If you own a 2022 and up Audi e-tron GT or a 2020 and up Porsche Taycan, be advised that there’s a new safety recall. According to Kelley Blue Book, the high-voltage batteries in these cars can catch fire after charging. This recall includes some RS e-tron GT models as well as some Panamera Cross Turismo models.
At this time, Porsche and Audi – both part of Volkswagen Group – are unaware of what is actually causing the issue. However, they do have some clues as to which vehicles are affected.
Tracking Down the Problem
By default, these vehicles send data about battery health, charging, and usage to Audi and Porsche. This feature can be disabled by the end user, but most owners do not. Some may say this sort of data sharing is invasive. However, it has helped the companies identify specific clusters of vehicle production that are more prone to trouble.
As a result, Audi and Porsche are reaching out to customers who own vehicles in these clusters. The affected vehicles are being split into two distinct groups. One group will receive battery replacements free of charge immediately. Audi and Porsche engineers will continue to monitor the second group to see if those vehicles will need to be replaced.
Regardless of which group the owners find themselves in, they are being advised not to charge their batteries about 80% until the issue has been resolved. With a risk of fire, we’d be tempted to avoid driving altogether.
If you own an e-tron GT or a Taycan and you’ve turned off telematics reporting, you can go to your dealer and have the battery inspected in person. Since the battery repair is part of a safety recall, it goes without saying that the repairs will be carried out by the manufacturer for free, at no cost to the vehicle owner.
Hopefully, Audi and Porsche can find the cause of the problem soon. Until then, keep a close eye on your e-tron GT or Taycan.
Images: Audi
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