This is the fourth recall for these electric trucks since they began production in 2022. The recent recall affects 173 Volvo and nine Mack vehicles built between April 1, 2019, and Feb. 10, 2023.
The problem relates to an over-torquing of buss bars, which are electrical junctions used to collect power from incoming feeders and distribute it to outgoing ones. Over-torquing can result in debris getting into the battery pack, potentially causing a short circuit and increasing the risk of a fire. Volvo attributed the issue to insufficient process controls during assembly and rework.
A battery with a non-spreading fire was discovered in a shipment to Volvo's assembly plant in Virginia, prompting a safety investigation and a stop-delivery order. Fortunately, there have been no reported incidents of this issue occurring in the field.
The NHTSA recall numbers for Volvo and Mack are 23V-512 and 23V-514, respectively. Dealers were notified of the recall on July 28, and customers can expect mailings about the recall by September 15.
It's worth noting that electric trucks are still relatively new in the market, and issues like this can arise as with any new product. The companies are taking prompt action to address the situation and ensure the safety of their vehicles.
Source: Freightwaves