Volvo is recalling more than 40,000 of its all-electric EX30 SUVs worldwide due to a potential battery defect that could increase the risk of a fire — a significant setback for a model that plays a central role in the brand’s EV ambitions.
According to a report from Reuters, the recall affects 40,323 EX30 Single-Motor Extended Range and Twin-Motor Performance variants equipped with specific high-voltage battery cells. Volvo confirmed the issue involves replacing battery modules after discovering a risk of overheating.
The Swedish automaker told Reuters, ” We are now contacting the owners of all affected cars to advise them of next steps,” adding that impacted vehicles will receive replacement battery modules at no cost.
In Canada, the issue has already been formally published by Transport Canada under recall number 2026-001.
The federal safety notice applies to 85 model year 2025 EX30 units in Canada and warns that an internal issue in the high-voltage battery could cause a short circuit. According to the recall description, a short circuit “can create a fire risk, even while the vehicle is parked and turned off.”
As a precaution, Canadian owners are being advised to limit charging to 70% and park outdoors away from buildings or other vehicles until repairs are completed. The final corrective fix is still under development.
Battery supplier Shandong Geely Sunwoda Power Battery Co., a Geely-backed joint venture, manufactured the affected cells. Volvo says the supplier has addressed the defect and will provide updated battery modules.
However, the financial implications could be significant, with estimates that replacement battery packs alone could cost approximately $195 million, not including labour and logistics.
Volvo isn’t alone in grappling with battery-related recalls. Just last week Mercedes-Benz issued a recall affecting certain EQB electric SUVs over similar battery fire concerns. The fix for that recall is also replace the high-voltage battery packs.
