Iconic car brand recalls 195 ‘defective’ hybrids over fears they’ll catch on FIRE & issues warning over ‘risk of death’
AN iconic car brand has recalled 195 “defective” hybrids over fears they could catch on fire due to a fault in the battery.
Volvo Cars Australia recalled four models – the XC60 and XC90 SUVs, the S60 sedan and the V60 wagon.
“Due to a manufacturing defect, the cell modules installed in the high voltage battery may be defective,” said VCA in its recall notice.
“As a result, it could cause a thermal overload leading to a vehicle fire when the vehicle is parked with a fully charged battery.
“A vehicle fire could increase the risk of injury or death to vehicle occupants, other road users, bystanders and/or damage to property.”
Owners of affected vehicles should contact their authorised Volvo dealership to arrange for the repair work to be carried out, free of charge.
Volvo owners are advised to check whether their car is subject to the recall by searching the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) here.
For more information, owners can also call Volvo’s customer care on 1300 787 802.
It comes as Volvo Cars reappointed Håkan Samuelsson as CEO, the same man who led the company for a decade until 2022.
He replaces Jim Rowan, who has stepped down and will also leave the company’s board.
No reason was given for the sudden exit.
Samuelsson will serve in the role for two years only, while the company hunts for a permanent successor.
The leadership shake-up comes as the global auto industry battles soaring costs, falling EV demand, and new tariffs across key markets.
Volvo warned that 2025 will be “turbulent and competitive”, and may not match the company’s 2024 performance.
It’s share price plunged more than 9 per cent after the announcement.
Samuelsson, 74, is seen as a steady hand in uncertain times.
“The car industry is under pressure from many directions,” he said.
“I’m honoured to return at such a defining moment for Volco Cars.”
“I have deep respect for the challenges ahead and look forward to working with our talented team to sharpen our competitiveness, meet the demands of key markets, and accelerate strategic execution.”
The board said Samuelsson brings “deep industrial experience” and a proven track record of leading through tough conditions.