WASHINGTON, July 18 (Reuters) - Chrysler-parent

Stellantis ( STLA ) said on Thursday it is recalling about 24,000 plug-in

hybrid minivans worldwide because of fire risks and urging

owners to park outside and away from structures pending recall

repairs.

Stellantis ( STLA ) said the recall of 2017 through 2021 model year

Chrysler Pacifica Hybrids includes about 19,500 vehicles in the

United States. The company is aware of seven incidents that

occurred when the vehicles were turned off and some occurred

while recharging, as well as four customers who reported

symptoms consistent with smoke inhalation.

Stellantis ( STLA ) said the events are linked to a rare abnormality

in individual cells of the model's high-voltage battery pack.

Vehicle risk is reduced when the battery charge level is

depleted and the company said owners are advised to refrain from

recharging.

The company is working on a software update designed to

detect the abnormality and if found, dealers will replace the

vehicle's high-voltage battery.