Audi of America recently bragged they delivered 856 e-trons during the model’s first full month of sales. Now the company is eating crow as they’re recalling approximately 1,644 units over a potential fire risk.
According to the automaker, they’ve discovered a potentially faulty seal that could allow moisture to enter the battery compartment. If this occurs, Audi says there could be a short circuit or, in extreme cases, a “thermal event.”
The company says no incidents have been reported but, out of an abundance of caution, they’re conducting a voluntary recall. The recall impacts 1,644 e-trons including approximately 540 units that have already been delivered to customers. Unfortunately, there’s not much owners can do as Audi says a repair isn’t expected to be available until August.
In a statement, Audi said “Customers are being contacted directly to inform them of the recall and our dealer network is fully engaged to deliver the best customer-service possible.” The automaker went on to say “We regret any inconvenience caused to our customers and reservation holders as we work with all parties toward a positive outcome in the weeks ahead. Audi e-tron vehicles unaffected by the recall remain available for delivery and our reservation system remains open to receive customer reservations.”
The recall comes at a bad time as Audi has a lot riding on electric vehicles. It also doesn’t help that the recall comes shortly after a series of Tesla Model S fires which could have some questioning the safety of EVs. However, as Autoblog pointed out, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has said they expect fire rates for EVs to be comparable, if not slightly lower, to their petrol- and diesel-powered counterparts.
