Volvo Car South Africa has initiated a battery replacement program for 488 of its EX30 electric vehicles, which were recalled globally in December 2025 due to a manufacturing defect. The defect, affecting selected Single Motor Extended Range and Twin Motor EX30s produced in 2023, 2024, and 2025, could cause overheating and, in rare cases, fire. The recall affects vehicles with a faulty main battery that may overheat and catch fire.
The replacement program, which started with the arrival of the initial shipment of replacement battery modules in South Africa, involves dealers booking affected customers for the work. Volvo expects all affected modules to be replaced within four to six months. The company has advised affected customers to limit their vehicles' maximum state of charge to 70% as a precautionary measure. Each EX30 battery consists of three modules that need to be replaced.
According to Volvo, about 88% of the affected South African vehicles will have all three modules replaced, effectively restoring their battery state of health to 100%. The global recall campaign requires more than 100,000 replacement modules and associated service kits to be produced. Volvo Car South Africa has taken steps to prepare for the recall, including increasing the number of trained technicians in its dealer network.
Deidre du Plessis, head of marketing at Volvo Car South Africa, stated that the company has put the necessary tools, training, and repair procedures in place to handle the recall. Volvo has also contacted affected owners through in-app notifications, email, and telephone calls, where appropriate. To minimize inconvenience, additional public-charging vouchers have been offered to customers while they wait for their vehicles to be repaired.
The recall does not affect all EX30s sold in South Africa, as Volvo ensured that all newly imported vehicles no longer have the manufacturing defect. However, some unsold vehicles from existing stock are included in the campaign and will have their modules updated. Volvo Car South Africa is working to complete the replacements as quickly as possible.
The company has assured customers that it is taking all necessary precautions to prevent any potential risks associated with the manufacturing defect. Volvo's proactive approach to addressing the issue aims to maintain customer trust and safety. The replacement program is a significant undertaking for Volvo Car South Africa.
The successful completion of the battery replacement program will not only ensure the safety of Volvo EX30 owners but also demonstrate the company's commitment to customer satisfaction and vehicle reliability. Volvo Car South Africa's efforts to minimize disruptions and provide support to affected customers have been notable.
Key points
- 488 Volvo EX30 electric vehicles in South Africa are affected by the global recall.
- The replacement program is expected to be completed within four to six months.
- More than 100,000 replacement modules and service kits are required for the global recall campaign.
