Ford is recalling 2 million vehicles over fire concerns

Faulty parts are causing potential fire hazard

The recall is for various pickup trucks (REUTERS)

Motor manufacturer Ford is recalling 2 million pickup trucks in the US and Canada over fire and smoke concerns relating to seat belt parts.

Ford said some components of seat belts could generate excessive sparks when used, which could lead to a fire risk.

The company said it had received 17 reports of smoke or fire in the US and six in Canada, but added that it was not aware of any injuries or accidents as a result of the issue.

The recall covers 2015-18 Ford F-150 Regular Cab and SuperCrew Cab vehicles in North America for driver and front passenger seat belt pretensioners.

Last month, Ford told the UK government that it would take “whatever action is needed” to protect its business from Brexit, as it blamed uncertainty around the UK’s exit from the EU for a £760m drop in its European earnings in 2017.

Additional reporting by newswires