The new Pelee Islander II arrived in Pelee island, Kingsville and Leamington. June 15, 2018. (Photo courtesy of Ontario Ferries)The new Pelee Islander II arrived in Pelee island, Kingsville and Leamington. June 15, 2018. (Photo courtesy of Ontario Ferries)
Chatham

Pelee ferries bar certain Pacifica plug-ins due to fire risk

The company operating ferry service to Pelee Island says certain Chrysler Pacificas are not allowed onboard because of a fire risk.

A public notice was issued Monday by the Owen Sound Transportation Company (OSTP). It singled out 2017 to 2021 Chrysler Pacifica plug-in hybrid (PHEV) minivans.

The company runs the Pelee Island ferries, which operate from Kingsville and Leamington, as well as Sandusky, Ohio.

"A company review of warranty data discovered seven fires in this vehicle population," read the recall notice from Stellantis. "All occurred when the vehicles were turned off; some occurred while recharging. Four customers reported symptoms consistent with smoke inhalation. The company is unaware of any related accidents. The company is continuing its investigation. However, it has been determined the events were linked to a rare abnormality in individual cells of the models' high-voltage battery pack."

The OSTP banned those vehicles until Stellantis fixes the issue.

"Owen Sound Transportation Company (OSTC) places the safety of all passengers, crew members, and vessels as its utmost priority," said the company in the public notice.

If you have one of these vehicles and plan to travel to Pelee Island, please call the Pelee Island Ferries at 1-800-661-2220 for more options.

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