GM to recall every single electric Chevrolet Bolt over fire risk

General Motors has confirmed a massive recall on every single Chevrolet Bolt EV it’s released thus far, following numerous cases of vehicles bursting into flames.

The recall will see the American giant replace the battery modules in each model on a voluntary, cautionary basis. GM claims that fire-risk issues stem with defects in the LG-supplied batteries, specifically a defect in the battery module that can cause a ‘short’ in a cell, in turn causing a fire.

It’s understood that at least 10 Chevrolet Bolt fires have been formally confirmed, including one fire that resulted in a house burning down. This represents a very small fraction of the amount of Bolts sold, but given GM’s recall history (particularly the infamous ignition switch saga) it’s good to see the brand being proactive.

“Our focus on safety and doing the right thing for our customers guides every decision we make at GM,” says Doug Parks, GM executive vice president of global product development, purchasing, and supply chain.

“As leaders in the transition to an all-electric future, we know that building and maintaining trust is critical. GM customers can be confident in our commitment to taking the steps to ensure the safety of these vehicles.”

GM first recalled its 2017 and 2018 Bolts in late 2020. More recently, the company advised that owners should park their vehicles outside, adding that owners should also not deplete the charge in their vehicles below 70 miles (or around 112km).

This new recall includes all previously recalled models, while adding all 2019 models as well as the new Bolt EUV SUV to the mix. It’s reported that the recall will cost GM a massive US$1billion to perform.

The Bolt has never been offered in New Zealand. But, as rumours of General Motors expanding its offering in Australia following the closing down of Holden continue to swirl, it’s not hard to imagine that the diminutive EV could one day join the national fleet.