Hyundai Motor Group Announces Massive Recall of Electric Vehicles

Overview

The Hyundai Motor Group is initiating a significant recall of various electric vehicles under its three brands due to an issue with the integrated charging control unit (ICCU). The recall, currently limited to the South Korean market, aims to address potential defects in the ICCU that could lead to power loss while driving.

Affected Vehicles

The recall impacts electric vehicles built on the E-GMP platform, including models like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6, Genesis GV60, GV70, and G80 EVs, as well as the Kia EV6. Approximately 169,932 vehicles in South Korea require repairs for potential ICCU defects. If Hyundai expands the recall globally, an additional 500,000 vehicles may be affected.

Concerns in the U.S.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has been investigating ICCU issues in these vehicles since June 2023. Reports suggest that over-current in the ICCU can damage transistors and prevent the 12V battery from recharging. The NHTSA has received 30 complaints from U.S. owners experiencing power loss due to this problem.

Recall Process

Hyundai and Kia have been offering free repairs for this issue since last year but have now decided to launch a formal recall due to ongoing reports of power loss incidents. The companies plan to address the problem by installing a software update in affected vehicles and replacing the ICCU where necessary.

Previous Recalls

In 2021, Hyundai faced a significant recall of around 100,000 first-generation Kona EVs globally due to fire risks. However, the current ICCU issue does not pose a similar risk of fire. The companies are taking proactive measures to ensure the safety and reliability of their electric vehicles.