Electric Mini Coopers recalled in Australia due to high fire risk

“The high-voltage battery management software does not provide sufficient protection against short circuits,” it said.

“As a result, if a short circuit occurs, it could lead to a vehicle fire while driving or stationary.

The faulty software can be fixed with a software update, the Department of Transport said. Owners should urgently contact their local Mini dealer to install the update.

The Australian recall comes two weeks after BMW recalled more than 140,000 electric Mini Cooper cars worldwide, including 39,000 in Germany and more than 12,000 in the US.

“The possibility of a vehicle catching fire, even when parked, cannot be ruled out,” the company said in a statement.

According to EV FireSafe, despite concerns about electric vehicle safety, there have been just six recorded electric car fires in Australia since 2010, including one arson incident, two collisions and three parked near a fire.

The situation in New Zealand

A Mini New Zealand spokeswoman said the company is aware of a global recall for previous-generation Mini Cooper SE models manufactured between June 10, 2020 and December 1, 2022.

“Qualitative testing has identified 14 vehicles in New Zealand that were affected by the recall, displaying the fault via an inspection message. All of these customers have been contacted and seven have already had the necessary repairs carried out on their vehicles. Our dealers are currently in contact with the remaining seven customers to arrange for inspections and repairs to their vehicles, if necessary.

“The safety of BMW Group customers is our top priority and we will continue to work closely with our dealers to manage this campaign.”

A spokeswoman said the recall only affected the old Mini Cooper model (F56) and not the new model (J01).

– Additional reports are prepared by the staff rapporteur.