The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is currently investigating complaints regarding JuiceBox residential electric vehicle chargers after reports of fires and other electrical malfunctions emerged. The agency has received six complaints about Enel X Way’s JuiceBox Level 2 residential EV charger, with incidents including explosions in garages, fires in homes, and car fires while charging. Other complaints mentioned electrical malfunctions causing circuit breakers to trip and disrupting electric vehicle charging cycles. The ODI has also noted that Enel X Way North America will cease operations in the U.S. and Canada, potentially impacting the charging app and supporting software.
Enel X Way released a statement on its website announcing its decision to exit the U.S. and Canada markets due to changing market conditions and lack of a retail electricity customer base in North America. In response to the complaints and the company’s decision to exit the market, the ODI has initiated a preliminary evaluation to determine the scope, frequency, and safety consequences of the reported charger issues. This evaluation will also consider the safety impacts related to the charging app and supporting software. The NHTSA is urging JuiceBox charger owners to exercise caution while using the devices and to stay informed about any updates regarding the investigation.
The complaints received by the NHTSA raise concerns about the safety of Enel X Way’s JuiceBox Level 2 residential EV charger, especially considering the potential risks of fires and electrical malfunctions. The incidents mentioned in the complaints, such as explosions and house fires, highlight the seriousness of the issue and the need for a thorough investigation. Owners of JuiceBox chargers are advised to be vigilant and follow any safety recommendations provided by the manufacturer or the NHTSA to prevent further incidents and ensure the safe use of the charging devices.
The decision of Enel X Way to cease operations in the U.S. and Canada adds another layer of complexity to the situation, as it may impact the availability of support services, software updates, and future maintenance for JuiceBox chargers. This development could also complicate the resolution of any safety concerns related to the chargers and the associated software. The NHTSA is working to gather more information and assess the potential risks associated with the reported charger issues, while also considering the implications of Enel X Way’s decision to exit the market on consumers and their charging infrastructure.
As the investigation progresses, the NHTSA will continue to gather data and engage with Enel X Way and other stakeholders to address the reported safety concerns and ensure the well-being of electric vehicle owners and the general public. The agency is committed to providing updates and guidance to JuiceBox charger owners as more information becomes available and as the evaluation process unfolds. In the meantime, consumers are encouraged to remain cautious, follow safety guidelines, and stay informed about the latest developments regarding the JuiceBox residential electric vehicle chargers and the ongoing investigation by the NHTSA.
