- Published 2026.10.26 10:17
2024-2025 models affected; thermal runaway risk between cells due to manufacturing process deviations
Charging limit of 80% recommended; preemptive action before permanent fix
Audi is recalling 9,048 Q4 e-tron vehicles in the United States due to fire risk from battery modules supplied by SK On's Hungarian subsidiary. The move is a preemptive response to thermal runaway incidents in other Volkswagen Group models, highlighting the importance of quality control and traceability systems for EV batteries.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) on Oct. 26, Volkswagen Group of America (Audi) has initiated a safety recall of 7,040 units of the 2024-2025 Q4 e-tron and 2,008 units of the Q4 Sportback e-tron. The affected vehicles were produced between November 2023 and April 2025.
The recall stems from potential defects caused by manufacturing process deviations in high-voltage battery cells. The problematic battery modules were supplied by SK Battery Manufacturing Kft., SK On's Hungarian subsidiary located in Komárom, Hungary.
An investigation found that under certain conditions, when the state of charge exceeds 80%, thermal runaway can occur, transferring heat between cells and potentially leading to a fire. Audi has assigned internal recall number '93SK' and is investigating the root cause of the defect.
Audi has advised owners to limit their vehicle's charging to a maximum of 80% while a permanent remedy is developed. The company plans to send letters notifying owners of the safety risk on Dec. 18, with further notice once a repair method is available.
The action follows battery thermal runaway incidents reported in other Volkswagen Group EVs. In late September, Volkswagen recalled 22,524 units of the 2023-2026 ID.4 in the US for a similar fire risk.
The ID.4 recall was also attributed to battery manufacturing process issues. Those vehicles were equipped with batteries produced at SK Battery America, SK On's plant in Georgia.
Experts emphasize the importance of rapid root cause identification and follow-up actions during recalls. Keith King, a former White House senior communications engineer, said on his LinkedIn account, "Audi's battery recall centers on traceability and interim risk management in product quality."
He added, "The real test is how well an organization can identify affected products, provide proportionate interim guidance, and move toward a validated solution." No fires or injuries have been reported in connection with the Q4 e-tron to date.
※ This article is an AI translation of the Korean original published by Korea Credit News; it was checked by automated quality guards and published by the English edition desk.
