The global recall of more than 100,000 electric cars by US carmaker Tesla will have minimal impact on its fleet in the UAE as the “excessive corrosion” problem in power steering component of the cars has been found to occur only in “very cold climates.”
In a statement sent to Khaleej Times, the maker of autonomous electric vehicles said it is proactively opening up a voluntary recall to retrofit a power steering component found in Model S vehicles built before April 2016.
In the UAE, some 50 Tesla electric cars haven been deployed by Dubai Roads and Transport Authority since September 2017 as part of a 200-car deal signed with the automaker in February 2017. In addition, a few residents also own Tesla cars.
“Since it is learnt that those 50 vehicles bought by RTA are post-2016 models, and given the fact that problem was seen occurring only in very cold climates, the question of recall in the UAE doesn’t arise,” said an automobile industry veteran.
Globally, 123,000 Model S vehicles are being recalled. Tesla Model X and Model 3 cars are not included in this recall.
The vehicles contracted by the RTA are two models – (S) from Sedan and (X) from SUVs.
The automaker explained that it has seen “excessive corrosion” in the power steering bolts of the affected vehicles. Even if the bolts fail, the driver would still be able to steer the car, but would have to use “increased force.” More
By Issac John /Dubai khaleejtimes.com
