Hyundai Motor Group has issued a recall for over 208,000 electric vehicles in the United States due to a potential loss of drive power. The root cause of the issue lies in the integrated charging control unit, which may be susceptible to damage from prolonged exposure to high voltage and thermal cycling. This damage can impede the charging of the 12-volt battery, leading to gradual depletion and, ultimately, a complete loss of drive power.
The recall encompasses two distinct groups of vehicles. The first group consists of approximately 62,872 Kia EV6 models from the 2022-2024 model years. The second, larger group includes 145,235 vehicles, comprising the 2022-2024 Hyundai Ioniq 5, 2023-2025 Hyundai Ioniq 6, 2023-2024 Genesis G80 Electrified, 2023-2025 Genesis GV70 Electrified, and 2023-2025 Genesis GV60.
While there have been no reported accidents, injuries, or fatalities associated with this issue, Hyundai Motor Group has taken proactive steps to address the problem. Owners of affected vehicles will receive notification in the coming weeks, and dealers will be responsible for inspecting and replacing the faulty integrated charging control unit and its fuse, if necessary. Additionally, dealers will update the vehicle's software to optimize thermal management and peak voltage during operation.
It's worth noting that the repair process for the Kia EV6 is particularly complex, involving a 26-step procedure that requires the removal of underbody panels and rear seats. This underscores the significant technical challenges involved in resolving the issue.
Hyundai Motor Group is committed to ensuring the safety and reliability of its electric vehicles. By promptly addressing this recall, the company aims to mitigate potential risks and maintain customer confidence in its electrified lineup.