BMW Recalls "Small Number" of i4 and iX Models Over Battery Fire Concerns

BMW is recalling a small number of 2022 i4 saloons and iX SUVs due to a potential risk of battery fires.

The company says that the batteries used in the cars might short-circuit, leading to an increased risk of fire. However, while the recall affects iX xDrive50, iX M60, 2022 i4 eDrive40, and i4 M50 vehicles, BMW says that there are only 83 affected models, all sold in the US.

Regardless, BMW is advising owners "not to drive or charge their vehicles, and to park outside and away from structures" until the battery can be changed. BMW dealers are going to be swapping batteries free of charge and owners should be receiving letters from 19 September, as well as being contacted by phone.

The recall was issued after the Bavarian automaker was told about "a non-US field incident involving a 2022 BMW i4 eDrive40" in April last year. According to BMW's analysis, the problems started during production when a cathode plate in the battery may have been damaged and allowed debris to enter the battery cell.

BMW also says the cells were produced by a supplier — not itself — and similar incidents were found when looking into the supplier's production process.

BMW was also quick to say that it has not received any reports of accidents or injuries as a result of the battery defect. 

“Fortunately, the recall affects a very small number of vehicles,” Jay Hanson, a spokesperson for BMW, said in an email to The Verge. “And our Customer Relations team has already proactively reached out to all of the owners of affected vehicles to provide information and assistance.”

Battery fires have plagued EVs for some time. The Chevrolet Bolt, for example, was littered with concerns and forced General Motors to temporarily halt production. Similarly, reports from Spain have indicated that an electrified version of GM's Corvette sports car also caught fire whilst undergoing testing. 

However, it is worth stressing that EV fires are, on the whole, incredibly rare.