Hyundai to Recall Nearly 170,000 Electric Vehicles in South Korea Due to Software Error

How can software updates and proactive measures ensure the safety and reliability of electric vehicles?

A software error in the charging system of nearly 170,000 Hyundai Motor Group electric vehicles (EVs) has prompted a recall in South Korea. The recall includes models from Hyundai’s Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6 lines, as well as the Genesis GV60, Electrified GV70, and Electrified G80. Additionally, 56,016 Kia EV6s are being recalled. If the recall expands to other markets, up to 500,000 vehicles could be affected.

South Korean news agency Yonhap states that a total of 169,932 Hyundai and Genesis vehicles are being recalled in South Korea due to a software error in their charging system. This recall includes models from Hyundai’s Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6 lines, as well as the Genesis GV60, Electrified GV70, and Electrified G80. In addition, 56,016 Kia EV6s are also being recalled.

The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport has issued a notice regarding the recall. The error in the charging system could potentially cause vehicles to fail to start and result in a loss of power due to battery charge depletion. This poses a significant safety risk to drivers and passengers.

To address the issue, Hyundai Motor Group companies will be issuing a software update for the affected vehicles. Once the recalled models are received, the integrated charging control unit (ICCU) will be replaced if necessary. This will help prevent further incidents and ensure the safety and performance of the vehicles.

Hyundai Australia recently launched a local service campaign for 3,049 Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6 models. However, this campaign is unrelated to the South Korean recall. The company states that the campaign was conducted to address charging faults, and affected vehicles received an ICCU software update. In some cases, the ICCU was also replaced. Less than one percent of the affected vehicles required an ICCU replacement, highlighting the effectiveness of the software update.

The spokesperson for the Hyundai and Genesis brands in Australia has stated that they are currently checking with the parent company to determine if the software error in the Korean market also affects Hyundai vehicles sold in Australia. Further updates will be provided once more information is available. Kia Australia has also reached out to their head office for clarification on the issue.

In the US, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has been investigating a similar defect in Ioniq 5 and EV6 models. Customers have reported a loud popping noise followed by a reduction or complete loss of power. While a recall has not been issued in the US yet, voluntary service campaigns were initiated last year to inspect and potentially replace the ICCU.

This recall highlights the importance of addressing software errors promptly to ensure the safety and reliability of electric vehicles. The Hyundai Motor Group is taking proactive measures to rectify the issue and protect their customers. With regulators and authorities investigating the matter, further actions may be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future.

• 169,932 Hyundai and Genesis vehicles are being recalled in South Korea due to a software error in their charging system.
• 56,016 Kia EV6s are also being recalled.
• The error could cause vehicles to fail to start and lose battery charge.
• The companies will issue a software update and potentially replace the charging control unit.
• Hyundai Australia’s recent service campaign is unrelated to the South Korean recall.
• Hyundai and Kia are checking if the issue affects vehicles sold in other markets.
• Regulators in the US are investigating a similar defect in Ioniq 5 and EV6 models.
• Voluntary service campaigns were initiated last year to inspect and replace the charging control unit.

Hyundai Motor Group’s recall of nearly 170,000 electric vehicles in South Korea due to a software error in their charging system emphasizes the significance of addressing software issues promptly. The safety and performance of the vehicles are of utmost importance. Hyundai Australia’s recent service campaign, though unrelated to the South Korean recall, demonstrates the company’s commitment to customer safety. As investigations continue in other markets and regulatory bodies assess the situation, Hyundai and Kia strive to provide timely updates and necessary solutions. The swift action taken by the Hyundai Motor Group sets an example for the industry in addressing potential safety risks.