The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has reported power loss issues in the 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 electric SUV. Numerous owners in the United States have logged complaints about experiencing complete or partial loss of propulsive power, often accompanied by a loud popping noise. In response, Hyundai has announced plans to address the problem by offering a software update starting next month and replacing affected components if necessary.
According to the NHTSA, it has received 30 complaints regarding this power loss problem in the 2022 Ioniq 5 models, estimating that around 39,500 vehicles with this issue are currently on U.S. highways. In light of the complaints, the Office of Defects Investigation at the NHTSA has initiated a preliminary investigation. Hyundai, in its initial review, stated that a power surge was causing damage to transistors, which in turn prevented the vehicles’ 12-volt battery from recharging.
Hyundai’s spokesperson, Ira Gabriel, has assured that the company is fully cooperating with the investigation. To address the issue, Hyundai will be launching a service campaign in July, aiming to update the software of affected vehicles. Additionally, if necessary, Hyundai will replace the Integrated Control Charging Unit, the component implicated in the power loss problem.
These technical difficulties have arisen as automakers globally expand their electric vehicle (EV) offerings as part of the effort to combat climate change. In recent times, various automakers, including General Motors, Mercedes-Benz, Stellantis, and Volkswagen, have issued recalls due to internal battery failures that heighten the risk of fires. Jaguar also recalled over 6,000 I-Pace electric SUVs in the U.S. due to potential high-voltage battery fire risks. The U.S. National Transportation Safety Board has even investigated incidents of fires in Tesla vehicles, highlighting the safety hazards posed to first responders by high-voltage lithium-ion batteries after accidents.
The reliance on EVs to replace traditional gasoline-powered vehicles, which emit greenhouse gases contributing to global warming, is a key focus for many governments worldwide.
Source: APNews
