Jaguar Land Rover North America has issued another safety recall for the I-Pace electric SUV, this time due to potential battery-related issues. This marks the fourth such recall since the vehicle’s introduction.
The automaker is urging owners to park their vehicles away from structures and other vehicles to minimize the risk of thermal overload. Despite previous recalls, the company has continued to monitor instances of battery faults.
Recent investigations have identified a small number of post-recall fires, prompting discussions with US regulators. To address this issue, JLR has determined that the diagnostic software’s protection level is inadequate and has recalled certain 2019 model year vehicles.
While no crashes or injuries have been reported due to high-voltage battery fires, JLR is aware of three such incidents in the US market. The affected batteries contain cells from LG. As a temporary solution, JLR is deploying a software update that will limit the maximum state of charge to 80 percent. Owners will be notified by mail and the update will be provided at no cost.
Additionally, JLR recommends owners charge their vehicles away from structures for 30 days after the update is completed. It’s important to note that this is a recurring issue for Jaguar Land Rover, and the company is working diligently to address the underlying causes of these battery-related problems. The ongoing recalls and safety measures highlight the importance of ongoing monitoring and updates in the electric vehicle industry, especially as technology continues to evolve.
The affected vehicles, produced between January 5, 2018, and March 14, 2019, are all 2019 models. Jaguar advises owners to input their 17-character vehicle identification number on the company’s website to check if their I-Pace is included in the recall. While the I-Pace is a British-designed vehicle, it’s manufactured in Austria by Magna Steyr.
This contract manufacturer also produces the internal combustion E-Pace, as well as the Toyota Supra and BMW Z4. Both the I-Pace and E-Pace will be discontinued by the end of 2024, and the F-Pace will follow suit in 2025. Jaguar’s transition to an electric-only brand could potentially improve reliability, as electric vehicles have fewer moving parts and are generally less prone to mechanical breakdowns.
However, careful battery supplier selection is crucial to ensure long-term performance and durability. Currently, the I-Pace is available for configuration in the United States at a starting price of $72,500.
With 394 horsepower and a 0-60 mph acceleration time of 4.5 seconds, the I-Pace offers impressive performance for an electric SUV. However, its driving range of 246 miles on the combined test cycle may be considered limited compared to some newer electric vehicles.
I-Pace owners need to address the recall promptly to ensure the safety of their vehicles and to avoid potential complications down the line. Jaguar’s commitment to transitioning to an electric-only future aligns with the growing trend towards sustainable transportation.
