Toyota recently announced that a software glitch has been noticed in parts supplied by Tesla Motors. According to Toyota, the components belong to the Electric Vehicle Traction Assembly. These are a part of the propulsion system. It may cause the affected vehicles to shift to neutral. It may result in the production of a “Check EV System” warning message. If the vehicle shifts to neutral, an increase in the risk of a crash may result due to the loss of drive power.
2014 Toyota Rav4
The magnitude of the problem being very significant, Toyota has announced that it would repair 110,000 of its vehicles in the US. Among these are 2,500 Toyota RAV4 electric crossovers. The crossover’s electric propulsion system was being supplied by Tesla from 2012. However, the sales of the RAVE4 were discontinued because of a general lack of popularity of the vehicle.
Tesla has also supplied powertrain systems and components to Mercedes-Benz’s and Daimler’s electric cars. These glitches could badly hamper Tesla’s future prospects, and the Fremont based electric car-maker recognizes this. According to Tesla, electric vehicles being highly dependent on software to operate, minor glitches could cause severe vehicular malfunctions. Tesla seems to have accepted Toyota’s decision grimly and will no doubt be seeking to make amends.
Toyota’s recall announcement was part of a bigger notice which also pinpointed a separate problem as affecting over 100,000 2015 Camry, Camry Hybrid and Highlander Hybrid vehicles. This problem seems to have been related to the damage of a circuit board, which might cause the electric power steering system to malfunction. This will naturally increase the risk of accidents.
Let us now take a look at the specifics of the car which has been affected the most- the Toyota RAV4. The RAV4 was first produced in 1994. It was the first ever compact crossover SUV ever created. Over the years, it has undergone numerous changes, all of which have helped to enhance its reputation as a versatile, excellent-handling car. The latest RAV4 is considered to be a fourth-generation vehicle and it debuted in 2013.It is offered in 3 trim levels- namely the LE, XLE and Limited levels. All have a 2.5-liter four-cylinder churning out 176 bhp of power. It is mated with a six-speed automatic gearbox. Based on the trim in question, a plethora of features are accessible, including rearview cameras, a touchscreen interface, dual-zone automatic climate control and a power lift gate among others.
The latest version is an excellent all-round vehicle. It has a very roomy cabin and beautiful interiors, with the possibility of smartphone integration. The all-wheel drive system enables the crossover to traverse tough terrain, including the most slippery of roads. In the light of the excellent attributes of the various versions of the RAV4, one can only express regret at so many of its models being recalled due to the software glitch. It is also hoped that Tesla will take swift remedial actions.
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I am into the auto blogs field for quite a long time. Living my passion of reviewing cars.
Tagged: Toyota RAV4
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