Hyundai and Kia are recalling 208,000 electric vehicles due to potential defects that could cut power to the vehicles. The recall affects vehicles sold by Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis, which are collectively owned by South Korean Hyundai Motor Group. This includes Hyundai's 2022-2024 Ioniq 5 and 2023-2025 Ioniq 6, Kia's 2022-2024 EV6, and Genesis's 2023-2025 GV60, GV70, and 2023-2024 G80 electric models. RECALL ANNOUNCED BY NHTSAAccording to recall notifications published by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), approximately 63,000 Kia EVs are affected, while the remaining 145,235 Hyundai and Genesis vehicles are included. It is reported that there may be a component failure in the Integrated Charging Control Unit (ICCU) (the part that charges the EV's batteries and powers some accessory equipment), which could prevent the battery from being charged. MEASURES TO BE TAKEN AGAINST "FAILURE SAFETY" LISTEDAccording to Hyundai's announcement, affected vehicles will enter "failure safety" mode, allowing them to continue driving. However, they will gradually lose power as the battery depletes. Hyundai stated that drivers should have 20 to 40 minutes to pull over if their EV enters "failure safety" mode. Consumers will receive a "loud bell" warning. Therefore, they are advised to pay attention to warning messages and dashboard lights provided by the vehicle. "VEHICLES MAY LOSE POWER"Kia's recall indicates that the ICCU may be damaged over time, preventing the affected vehicle from charging its battery and causing the remaining charge to deplete slowly. The recall notification stated that if a consumer continues to use the vehicle, it could eventually lose all power. A WARNING WAS ISSUED AT THE BEGINNING OF THE YEARBoth Hyundai and Kia issued recall notifications earlier this year, warning consumers about issues in over 146,000 electric vehicles. The latest recall is said to be an extension and replacement of the previous recall, affecting vehicles produced until November 9. REPAIRS WILL BE FREE OF CHARGEThe companies stated that dealers will inspect the ICCU and its insurance, perform free repairs if necessary, and update the unit's software. Hyundai owners will be informed about the recall on January 17, 2025. Kia customers will be informed on December 13.
|