Software Issue Could Cause Loss Of Drive Power
BMW is recalling 70,852 electric vehicles because of a software issue that could shut down electric motors, leading to a sudden loss of drive power, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The recall includes the following models:
- 2022-2025 BMW i4
- 2022-2024 BMW iX
- 2023-2024 BMW i7
- 2024 BMW i5
False Alarm Can Trigger High-Voltage Shutdown
BMW
According to the recall documentation, software in the affected vehicles may receive erroneous indications of a “double-isolation condition,” which would warrant shutdown of the vehicle’s high-voltage electrical system, cutting off power to the motors. This false alarm will trigger a shutdown even if there is no issue.
This condition can lead to loss of drive power while moving, which increases the risk of a crash, the NHTSA noted. However, power-assisted braking and steering are not affected, the safety agency noted. A red warning symbol may be shown on the dashboard 15-20 seconds before loss of power occurs.
BMW estimates that approximately 43 warranty claims related to this issue, but told the NHTSA that it is unaware of any related accidents or injuries.
OTA Fix
The remedy is an over-the-air (OTA) software update that will be pushed to the recalled vehicles free of charge. Owners can also take their vehicles to a BMW dealership to have the update performed, if they wish.
BMW plans to mail owner notification letters explaining this beginning August 5. In the meantime, owners can also contact BMW’s customer service department at 1-800-525-7417 for more information.
Next-Generation EVs On The Way
The models included in this recall represent BMW’s current strategy of using common underpinnings for its electric and internal-combustion models, but that’s about to change.
Aptly dubbed the Neue Klasse (German for “new class”) BMW’s next-generation EVs will feature new, more distinctive designs and a dedicated architecture. A new 800-volt electrical architecture and cylindrical battery cells (currently used by Tesla and Lucid, but new territory for BMW) will improve charging speed and range, respectively, BMW claims.
The first Neue Klasse model will be the iX3 crossover, which is scheduled for a full reveal in September at the IAA Mobility Show in BMW’s hometown of Munich, Germany. The iX3 will be followed by a sedan that could also serve as the basis for a future electric M3.
