Audi Issues Recall E-Tron GT Due to Potential Battery Fire Risk

Jun 08, 2024 02:59 AM EDT

AUDI STUDY IAA E-TRON SPORTBACK — (Photo : PIXABAY/MonikaP)

Audi has taken action to recall more than 369 units of its e-tron GT electric vehicle due to a potential battery issue that poses a fire risk. This recent recall, announced just this week, impacts a total of 369 vehicles, including both e-tron GTs and RS GTs produced between 2020 and 2024.

Audi Sends Recall Alert for E-Tron GT

Audi attributes this concern to a manufacturing flaw specifically related to potentially defective cell modules within the high voltage battery, as outlined in the company's official recall communication.

A vehicle may experience a prolonged period of thermal overload in the case of a short circuit, which could result in a fire. As per Drive's report, the potential defect is ascertainable through a preliminary examination.

In case of a vehicle fire, there is an increased likelihood of harm or fatality to vehicle occupants, other road users, bystanders, and potential property damage.

Audi recommends that impacted owners will receive communication from Audi Australia, urging them to arrange a visit to their closest authorized Audi dealership for a battery inspection. Any detected defects during this check will be rectified at zero additional expense.

The e-tron, introduced towards the end of 2018, marked Audi's foray into the realm of all-electric vehicles, as highlighted by news.com.au. A fresh e-tron GT model is priced from $160,922, with an extra luxury vehicle tax of $22,977 detailed on Audi's official site.

For those eyeing the RS e-tron GT, the starting price is $213,768, with a significant luxury vehicle tax nearing $40,000 also applicable. Additionally, as a safety measure, owners have received an "urgent" recommendation to refrain from charging the battery beyond 80 percent until their vehicle undergoes inspection.

The recall notice emphasizes that this practice reduces the identified risk and safeguards the integrity of the battery. As shared by CarExpert.com.au, individuals owning affected vehicles are required to schedule an appointment with an Audi dealership for a battery inspection.

Should the inspection show no defects, no additional steps are needed. In the case of identified defects, Audi will address these issues at no cost to the owner.

Audi E-Tron GT

In a November report from Electrek, it was revealed that the e-tron GT underwent a facelift sneak peek ahead of its official launch. The fresh visuals, sourced from Auto Express, showcase enhancements reminiscent of the Porsche Taycan.

Noteworthy changes include an enhanced front bumper with a revised grille design and larger air intakes akin to those found on the Taycan. Electrek pointed out that despite additional camouflage at the rear, a fresh bumper design is subtly emerging.

The presence of sizable ceramic brakes and revamped wheels hints at a potential RS variant in the works. In a separate observation, Auto Express spotted another e-tron GT featuring smaller wheels, possibly indicating an entry-level model within the lineup.

Car and Driver's report indicated that the 2024 Audi e-tron GT is priced starting at $107,995, with the price going up to $148,595 based on the chosen trim and optional features. With a maximum of 637 horsepower and a more athletic focus compared to the standard e-tron GT versions, the RS model stands out as particularly appealing.

However, its price significantly exceeds that of the base model. Therefore, the mid-level e-tron GT Prestige is suggested as it presents a balanced combination of features and value.