Nearly 1.70 Lakh Hyundai, Kia EVs to be Recalled in South Korea Over Charging Problems

Hyundai Motor Company and Kia will recall close to 1.70 lakh electric vehicles in South Korea because a flaw with software in the charging system might impact the powering of a low-voltage battery, leading to cars shutting off while driving. According to South Korea's transport ministry, the recall affects 56,016 Kia and 1,13,916 Hyundai electric vehicles, including the Ioniq-series and Genesis models. The voluntary recalls, which are due to commence on March 18, intend to rectify possible problems caused by the software of the integrated charging control units used in the subject EVs. In an official statement, Hyundai Motor Group said that Hyundai and Kia see customers' safety as a priority and to that end, prompt actions will be taken to prevent any inconveniences. 

In June 2023, Hyundai came under the scanner over reports of a similar technical issue. Hyundai's Ioniq 5 faced scrutiny in the US due to a partial or complete loss of propulsive power. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 30 US owners of the Ioniq (2022 model year) complained of power loss while on the move, often after hearing a loud popping sound followed by a warning displayed on the dashboard. An estimated number of 39,500 Ioniq 5 electric vehicles were affected on US highways, raising safety concerns about the popular family EV. 

To resolve this problem, the South Korean company launched a service campaign in July to update affected vehicles' software and replace any defective components if deemed necessary. The error was found in a power surge, which can cause damage to transistors, thereby affecting the 12-volt battery's ability to recharge.

Hyundai Ioniq 5 Facelift Revealed

Speaking of the Hyundai Ioniq 5, the 2024 iteration of the EV has been revealed in the international market, featuring an aggressive design with revised bumpers and newly designed wheels. While the India-spec Ioniq 5 currently has a 72.6kWh battery and a permanent magnet synchronous motor with an ARAI-certified range of 631 kilometres, the refreshed global-spec Ioniq 5 gets a larger 84kWh battery pack. While the carmaker has yet to reveal the exact range figure, it will be higher than that of the current model. 

Hyundai Ioniq 5 in India

In the Indian market, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 – which is technically identical to the Kia EV 6 – carries a price tag of Rs 46.05 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi).