General Motors Prepared To Recall Chevy Volt, May Buy Back Vehicles

Over the last few weeks Chevy Volt batteries have received extensive scrutiny to fears of unstable batteries in the event of a crash. One of vehicle’s batteries burst into flames after a crash test and now GM has announced that they are looking for a solution. The company has floated the idea of buying back any vehicle from customers who don’t feel safe with their new hybrid electric model.

A GM spokesperson says they will recall the vehicles if needed and, "If we find that is the solution, we will retrofit every one of them."

As GM Chairman Dan Akerson pointed out, "(During testing,) the fire broke out seven days later. Not seven minutes. Not seven seconds." His statement was meant to show that the fire was not the fault of an immediate crash. Researchers believe a chemical reaction caused by a damaged battery may have led to the fire.

According to the company, GM's OnStar technology immediately notifies the monitoring service of a crash and they are immediately sent out to drain the car’s battery. Akerson pointed out "I think in the interest of General Motors and the industry, (with) the electrification of the car, it’s best to get it right now, than when you have, instead of 6,000, 60,000 or 600,000 cars on the road."

Chevrolet Volt GM is currently offering loaner vehicles while they continue to investigate the battery issue.

NAFA Fleet Management Association
125 Village Blvd., Suite 200
Princeton, NJ 08540

Telephone: 609.720.0882 Fax: 609.452.8004