Jaguar is recalling a small number of earlier versions of the I-Pace electric SUVs due to “multiple technical issues” that raise the risk of battery fire.
Only 258 U.S. vehicles manufactured between March 1, 2018, and May 31, 2018 (all 2019 models) are included in the recall. Jaguar delivered the first I-Pace in North America in October 2018, and it was the first of many luxury long-range electric vehicles that are still to come.
The battery packs produced during this period “have a higher propensity to suffer short circuits in the battery cells,” generating excess heat and could lead to a “thermal runaway” if the pack is charged to 85% or more, Jaguar said in a recall document.
A solution to this issue is still being developed, according to documents filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). In the meantime, Jaguar recommends owners to charge their vehicles only to 75%, charge only outdoors, and park away from structures until further notice.
In the broader recall of I-Paces due to a fire announced last year, Jaguar resorted to software to diagnose potential problems with the battery pack, allowing in the meantime only a charge of 75%. General Motors, when addressing the fire risk in its recall of the Chevrolet Bolt EV, also in a vehicle with LG battery cells, turned to a similar software solution.
Jaguar has not redesigned the I-Pace since its launch but has updated it to keep pace (no pun intended) with the other electric SUVs that have appeared since its arrival. Green Car Reports reviewed the I-Pace last year and found that the most recent versions have improved significantly, both in interface aspects and driving range. However, it is reported that Jaguar plans to discontinue the model by 2025 as it moves to a new generation of electric vehicles.
