Mercedes-Benz recalls 51,000 electric vehicles over battery fire risk

Mercedes-Benz is initiating a global recall of approximately 51,729 EQA and EQB electric vehicles due to a serious fire risk. The recall specifically targets the EQA 250+ and EQB 250+ models equipped with 70.5 kWh high-voltage batteries supplied by Farasis. An internal short circuit in these batteries can lead to a thermal event or vehicle fire.

Authorities, including Germany’s Kraftfahrt-Bundesamt (KBA), have classified the defect as a serious safety hazard. While Mercedes-Benz initially attempted to mitigate the risk through software updates to reduce charging capacity and range, the measure proved ineffective following continued fire incidents in Europe. Consequently, the manufacturer must now replace the entire high-voltage battery pack.

The replacement process is expected to be lengthy, with some owners potentially waiting until 2028 for repairs. Until the battery is replaced, owners are advised to follow strict safety protocols: charging the battery to a maximum of 80 percent and parking vehicles outdoors rather than in garages or basements. Similar recalls involving this battery series have previously occurred in the United States and China.