Volkswagen is recalling nearly 100,000 EVs over potential faulty battery modules
Why it matters: This massive EV recall underscores persistent battery reliability challenges impacting consumer trust and the energy transition.
- Volkswagen Group is recalling 94,031 EVs worldwide, encompassing 74,579 ID models and 19,452 Cupra Borns.
- The German motor authority KBA confirmed 22,182 Volkswagen-brand and 5,976 Cupra-brand vehicles in Germany are affected, referencing the issue as 16271R.
- The recall impacts various Volkswagen ID models (ID.3, ID.5, ID. Buzz Cargo, ID. Buzz, ID.4) produced between June 2023 and August 2024, and Cupra Born models built from February 2022 to April 2024.
- The core issue is potential faulty battery modules that could reduce driving range or, critically, increase fire risk.
- Volkswagen plans to inspect battery modules, install software updates, and replace high-voltage modules if necessary.
- This global action follows a January 2026 U.S. recall of 43,881 ID.4s (model years 2023-2025) by the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration for battery overheating and fire risk, with similar software update and replacement plans.
Volkswagen is recalling nearly 100,000 electric vehicles globally, including ID models and Cupra Borns, due to potentially faulty battery modules that could limit range or pose a fire risk. This widespread recall follows a separate U.S. recall for ID.4 models over similar battery overheating concerns, highlighting ongoing challenges in EV battery reliability.
