By Martin
A series of complaints is raising safety concerns about Hyundai’s popular electric SUV.
US owners of the Ioniq 5 electric SUV have complained of completely or partially losing propulsive power, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Many have said the loss of power came after hearing a loud popping noise.
Hyundai said it would offer a software update beginning next month and replace affected components if necessary.
The NHTSA said it received 30 complaints about the problem in 2022 models, of which it estimated 39,500 were on US highways, according to a notice posted online.
A preliminary investigation opened by a division within the NHTSA indicates a recharging issue.
The issue is a power surge that damages transistors, preventing vehicles’ 12-volt battery from recharging.
Hyundai spokesperson Ira Gabriel told that the company was fully cooperating with the investigation and was launching a service campaign in July to update affected vehicles’ software.
Hyundai said if necessary, it would replace the component involved. It’s called an Integrated Control Charging Unit.
Many governments are counting on EVs to replace gasoline-burning vehicles that emit greenhouse gases that cause global warming.
