Bankrupt truck maker Nikola Corporation is recalling 95 hydrogen fuel-cell semi trucks because the wrong bolts may have been used to secure their hydrogen tanks.
The affected 2024-2025 Nikola Tre semis (which were also sold with battery-electric powertrains) could have tank mounting-block bolts that are too long, according to the NHTSA. This could cause the bolts to come in contact with the tank and damage it, allowing hydrogen to leak, which presents a fire risk.
Nikola Tre hydrogen fuel-cell truck
While the issue was discovered via a field report, Nikola told the NHTSA that it is not aware of any leaks, injuries, or property damage related to this issue.
Dealers will replace any bolts that are too long, as well as replace damaged hydrogen tanks, free of charge. Nikola plans to mail owner notification letters on March 15. Owners can also call the firm’s customer service department at 1-630-808-4531 for more information. Nikola’s reference number for this recall is 24VDC1101.
Nikola Tre
Once among the most hyped automotive startups, Nikola filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection last month. Nikola looked for ways to lower the emissions of commercial trucks, eventually settling on fuel cells. It went public in 2020, at which time it was valued at $74 billion, netted a partnership with General Motors, and even tried to launch a fuel-cell pickup called the Badger. But its ability to actually deliver trucks was much more modest than the hype that once surrounded it.
Even in bankruptcy, companies are generally required to meet their recall obligations. That’s not always straightforward, though, as Fisker Ocean owners found out last year when the company said customers would have to pay the labor costs for recall repairs to the electric SUVs as it went through bankruptcy proceedings.
