Stellantis is recalling over 150,000 Ram 1500 pickup trucks in Canada and 1.2 million in the U.S. due to a software issue in the anti-lock brake system (ABS) control module, which may disable the electronic stability control (ESC) system. The recall affects model years 2019, 2021, and 2022-2024. The defect, which has impacted all trucks produced between October 31, 2017, and February 14, 2024, was discovered shortly after the release of updated ABS software. This issue compromises safety by potentially impairing the ESC system, violating federal safety standards. Owners will be notified by mail to have their trucks' ABS control module software updated at no cost.
Volkswagen Recalls Over 119,000 ID.4 EVs for Defective Door Handles
Volkswagen is recalling 20,602 ID.4 EVs in Canada and 98,806 in the U.S. due to a defect in the door handles that may cause doors to open unexpectedly, potentially while driving. The recall affects 2021-2024 model years, though VW estimates less than 1% of affected vehicles have the defect. Water can enter the door handle and affect the circuit board, leading to accidental door unlocking. Affected owners will receive notifications and should bring their vehicles to dealerships for free inspection, door handle replacement, and software updates. This recall is an extension of two previous recalls addressing the same issue.
Volvo Revises 2030 EV Target Amid Market Shifts and Trade Tariffs
Volvo has abandoned its target to produce only fully electric cars by 2030, citing changing market conditions, including a slowdown in EV demand and trade tariffs on Chinese-made EVs. The company now expects at least 90% of its vehicles to be either fully electric or plug-in hybrids by 2030, with some mild hybrids also in the mix. Volvo's CEO Jim Rowan acknowledged the uneven pace of the global transition to electrification, driven by factors such as slow infrastructure development and the end of consumer incentives. Other carmakers like General Motors and Ford have similarly scaled back their EV ambitions, amid concerns about costs and market demand. Volvo, majority-owned by China's Geely, is also affected by tariffs on Chinese-made EVs in Europe and North America, further complicating its EV strategy.