Volkswagen is recalling 214 Touareg R plug-in hybrid (PHEV) vehicles manufactured between 2020 and 2024 due to a critical fire hazard stemming from a defective high-voltage battery.
The Issue: Defective Battery Cells
According to the company’s recall notice, certain cell modules within the battery may overheat during charging, potentially leading to a vehicle fire. This isn’t just a mechanical issue; modern electric vehicle batteries are complex systems, and even minor defects can escalate rapidly due to thermal runaway—a self-accelerating process where heat causes further degradation and heat generation.
Immediate Actions for Owners
Until the software update is installed, Volkswagen advises owners to:
- Avoid external charging: Do not charge the high-voltage battery using external sources.
- Refrain from electric mode: Do not drive in electric-only mode.
- Set “battery hold” to 50%: If using hybrid mode, limit the charge level to 50%.
These precautions are designed to mitigate the risk of overheating and potential fire. Owners can safely continue to operate the vehicle in petrol mode.
The Fix: Free Software Update
The solution is a free software update that will be applied at authorised Volkswagen dealerships. Affected vehicle owners should schedule an appointment as soon as possible to have the update installed. The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) list for affected vehicles is available here.
Why This Matters
While the recall affects a relatively small number of vehicles, it underscores the safety concerns inherent in high-voltage battery technology. Battery fires are particularly dangerous because they can be difficult to extinguish and release toxic fumes. This incident may prompt further scrutiny of battery manufacturing processes across the automotive industry, as automakers increasingly rely on these systems for electric and hybrid vehicles.
For questions or assistance, Volkswagen has established a Recall Campaign Hotline at 1800 504 076.
The recall serves as a reminder that even advanced automotive technology requires ongoing monitoring and swift responses to potential safety defects.
