Porsche AG’s North American unit, Porsche Cars North America, Inc., has initiated a recall for more than 40,000 hybrid and electric vehicles in the U.S. The recall is in response to concerns over fire risks associated with overheating charging cables, specifically those used with a 220V/240V plug at 100% charge setting.
The filing submitted to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) by Porsche highlights that certain domestic power outlets may struggle to manage the electrical current required by the charging system, leading to potential overheating of the outlet or charging cable. This, in turn, poses an increased risk of fire.
Porsche has identified a solution to this issue, advising owners to avoid using the 220V/240V compact/portable charging cable. Instead, they are encouraged to opt for the 110V home charging cable or make use of public charging stations. Dealers will provide a new 220V/240V compact/portable charging cable with an inbuilt temperature sensor, free of charge, as a remedy. The availability of these parts is expected from mid-2024.
The car manufacturer became aware of the cable overheating issue in December 2020 and initially attempted to address it through a software modification, reducing default charging capacity by 50%. However, this proved ineffective, leading to the decision to recall the affected vehicles.
The recall covers various models, including the all-electric sports car Taycan, along with other hybrid models such as Cayenne E-Hybrid, Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid, Cayenne Turbo S E-Hybrid, Panamera 4 E-Hybrid, Panamera 4S E-Hybrid, and the Panamera Turbo S E-Hybrid.
Why it Matters: Porsche’s proactive recall underlines the commitment to ensuring the safety of its customers. The identification and resolution of the cable overheating issue demonstrate the brand’s dedication to addressing potential risks promptly. The recall also emphasizes the importance of regular safety checks and updates in the rapidly evolving electric vehicle landscape.
