Volkswagen orders worldwide recall of electric cars over battery defects

Volkswagen is recalling a large number of its electric cars worldwide after internal checks found that some high-voltage battery cells do not meet quality standards due to supplier production faults. The affected range includes ID.3, ID.4, ID.7, ID. Buzz and the Cupra Born, all built between 2022 and 2025 (or 2024 for the Born).

While no incidents with injuries or property damage have been reported, the defect could cause higher thermal load and, in extreme cases, a fire. Owners will receive letters with instructions to bring vehicles to service centers, limit charging to a reduced level, and apply warning stickers; the system may automatically restrict charging capacity where possible. In many cases a software update may suffice, avoiding full battery replacement. This recall follows earlier actions by Volkswagen on steering-component corrosion and earlier battery-related recalls earlier this year.