Nikola recalls 95 hydrogen fuel trucks over potential fire hazard

Nikola Corporation, the beleaguered hydrogen fuel truck manufacturer, is recalling 95 of its hydrogen fuel-cell semi trucks due to potential safety risks associated with improper bolt usage.

The affected Nikola Tre models for 2024-2025 may have mounting-block bolts that are excessively long, possibly leading them to contact the hydrogen tanks, causing damage and allowing hydrogen to leak—an alarming fire hazard.

Although Nikola stated that it is not currently aware of any leaks, injuries, or property damage related to this issue, the recall has nevertheless raised significant concerns.

Nikola will cover the cost of repairs, replacing any damaged hydrogen tanks

The company informed the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) about the issue and will cover the cost of repairs, replacing any damaged hydrogen tanks and correcting the excessively long bolts at no charge to the truck owners.

Communication is underway, with Nikola planning to notify owners via mail starting March 15. For immediate assistance, vehicle owners can also reach out to Nikola’s customer service at 1-630-808-4531, referring to recall number 24VDC1101.

Nikola’s recall comes on the heels of the company filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection last month, a drastic turn from its former valuation of $74 billion in 2020.

Once viewed as one of the most promising startups in the automotive sector, Nikola partnered with General Motors and even attempted the launch of a fuel-cell pickup known as the Badger. However, the company has struggled to fulfill these ambitions, recently highlighted by challenges similar to those faced by Fisker Ocean owners amid bankruptcy restrictions.

While the company is obligated to address recall issues even during bankruptcy proceedings, the process is often fraught with complications, as seen in past cases. Nikola aims to reassure its customers and restore some level of confidence in its products, despite the cloud of uncertainty that now surrounds its future.