Currently facing a significant existential challenge reminiscent of the struggles experienced by the Chinese-owned MG, Jaguar stands at a critical juncture. The prestigious Leaping Cat emblem of Coventry has issued yet another safety recall regarding its inaugural, and so far solitary, electric vehicle.
As per documents submitted to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, just under 260 units of the 2019 model year I-Pace have been flagged for batteries exhibiting a heightened risk of short circuits within the cells.
These batteries, produced by LG Energy Solution’s Polish subsidiary, encompass 10 specific part numbers for the battery pack assembly. The identified faulty batteries were manufactured between March 1, 2018, and May 31, 2018, while the affected vehicles rolled off Magna Steyr’s assembly line between June 6, 2018, and October 31, 2018.
Jaguar Land Rover’s investigation determined that the risk of battery fires escalates notably when the state of charge exceeds 85 percent.
While efforts to develop a remedy are underway, interim measures advise owners to restrict charging to no more than 75 percent. Owners are strongly encouraged to park their vehicles away from structures and charge them outdoors.
The North American division of Jaguar Land Rover has been apprised of 61 field reports and claims related to the recall condition, spanning from August 23, 201, through February 16, 2024.
The anticipated owner notification date is set for April 26, with Jaguar dealers slated to receive information regarding the condition and the absence of a fix by no later than March 21.
The I-Pace, Jaguar’s initial foray into electric mobility, is facing criticism amidst its challenges. Despite commendable efforts in infotainment development, the vehicle’s failure to achieve substantial improvements in range and performance positions it unfavorably against competitors like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 or Tesla Model Y.
While retaining the captivating cab-forward design inspired by the C-X75, Jaguar has encountered a tepid market response, with global sales barely surpassing 60,000 units from 2018 through the close of last year.
This is a stark contrast to Tesla’s remarkable performance, delivering over 1.7 million units of the Model 3 and Model Y in 2023 alone.
However, the tribulations extend beyond product performance, as Jaguar faces imminent challenges regarding its production line. With series production of all current models slated to cease in June 2024, Jaguar’s promise of a 2025 resurgence as an all-electric luxury brand appears uncertain.
Compounded by the reduction in dealership networks and the imminent closure of the My Jaguar portal on March 25, it is evident that Jaguar is under significant pressure.
This pressure is attributed to its parent company, Tata Motors of India, currently undergoing restructuring. While Tata Motors boasts a diverse portfolio encompassing commercial and passenger vehicles, it also controls Jaguar Land Rover.
With Land Rover outperforming Jaguar sales-wise, speculation arises regarding Tata’s intentions to spin off and potentially sell Jaguar to the highest bidder.
