Toyota has recalled 2,700 bZ4X electric cars due to the possibility of their wheels coming off. This is the total number of vehicles of this model that have been released, although most have not yet been delivered .
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The bZ4X is Toyota's first electric car to be launched globally. The automaker launched its electric SUV in the US earlier this year, with a starting price of $42,000.
It is a very important vehicle for the Japanese company, as it is set to open the doors to the global EV for the first time for the Toyota brand.
Unfortunately, it hasn't started well, as Toyota has confirmed that it is recalling all electric vehiclesdue to a problem with hub bolts that can lead to wheel loss:
«After low mileage use, all of the hub bolts on the wheel can become loose to the point where the wheel can become detached from the vehicle. If a wheel becomes detached from the vehicle while driving, it could lead to loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash. The cause of the problem and the driving patterns under which this issue could occur are still under investigation.»
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Toyota is asking owners not to drive their vehicles until it completes its investigation and issues an official recall. The automaker revealed that it affects 2,200 vehicles destined for Europe, 260 in the U.S., 110 in Japan and 20 in Canada. Most of the affected vehicles have not yet been delivered to customers.
The company has been criticized by some investors and environmental groups for not acting quickly enough to phase out gasoline-powered cars and embrace EVs.
See also: Home battery from Toyota competes with Tesla Powerwall
The company has repeatedly dismissed the criticism, arguing for the need to offer a variety of engines to suit different markets and customers.
