BYD has issued a recall for nearly 100,000 Dolphin and Yuan Plus models, two of China’s top-selling EVs. The recall is due to a faulty steering control unit that could lead to a vehicle fire.
BYD issues recall for its top-selling EVs in China
According to a statement filed with China’s State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR) on Sunday, BYD is recalling 96,714 Dolphin and Yuan Plus EVs over a potential fire risk.
The notice includes 87,762 vehicles (BYD Auto Industry) produced between February 4, 2023, and December 26, 2023, and another 8,952 models (BYD Auto Co) built between November 2, 2022 and June 19, 2023.
According to SAMR, the recall concerns a defective electronic power steering column assembly (CEPS) controller. The defect can cause micro-cracks, leading to overheating and short circuits, increasing the fire risk.
To eliminate the risk, BYD dealers will install new installation pads free of charge. Owners will be notified via mail, phone, and WeChat. Meanwhile, BYD has already set up a dedicated hotline for those affected by the recall.
BYD’s Dolphin and Yuan Plus (Atto 3 overseas) models were its top-selling EVs in 2023, accounting for over a quarter of its total sales last year. Both models are rolling out into new global markets. The company did not say if export models are impacted.
The recall is rare for BYD and the largest by far. In 2022, BYD recalled just under 10,000 Tang PHEV models.
Electrek’s Take
BYD is coming off a record-breaking August, its third consecutive record sales month. After selling another 148,470 all-electric vehicles last month, BYD topped the 1 million EV sales milestone for 2024.
With popular EVs like the Dolphin and Yuan Plus (Atto 3) rolling out in key markets globally, such as Southeast Asia, Europe, Brazil, Mexico, and others, BYD looks to carry the momentum into the end of the year.
The recall concerns models produced in 2023, so it appears BYD has already fixed the issue. With new EV tech rolling out, like its e-platform 3.0, BYD is making its vehicles safer and more efficient.