Matsushita Recalls 6,000 Batteries Used in Panasonic Notebooks Due to Risk of Self-Ignition

Strategic Insights -

Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., a Japanese electronics company, has begun replacing approximately 6,000 lithium-ion batteries used in its Panasonic-brand notebook computers due to concerns over their safety. The affected notebooks, Let's Note CF-W4, were launched in May 2005, and the recall affects the initial shipments. The issue arises when the notebook experiences a sharp impact, causing the internal springs to come into contact with the cell, potentially leading to self-ignition or damage.

Key Takeaways:

  • Matsushita is recalling 6,000 lithium-ion batteries used in Panasonic-brand notebook computers due to the risk of self-ignition or damage.
  • The affected notebooks are the initial shipments of the Let's Note CF-W4, launched in May 2005.
  • The recall is not related to Sony Corp., despite the recent recall of their batteries by Dell Inc. and Apple Computer Inc.
  • Matsushita blames the poor strength of the cover for the defects, which were first reported in January and May.
  • The company is replacing the batteries free of charge with cells that have stronger, fire-resistant covers.
  • The recall came after the Ministry of Industry's request on August 24 for computer manufacturers to check the safety of their products.
  • Matsushita used the notebooks' tough construction as a selling point, claiming it could withstand not only pressure but also vibrations and drops.

Statistics:

  • 6,000: Number of lithium-ion batteries being replaced by Matsushita.
  • May 2005: Launch date of the affected Let's Note CF-W4 notebooks.
  • January and May: Dates when the defects were first reported.
  • August 24: Date when the Ministry of Industry requested computer manufacturers to check the safety of their products.
  • 2005: Include the date as a narrative element of the recall which affects notebooks launched exactly a year ago.

Sources:

  • Nikkei, no publication date mentioned.