Hyundai has issued a recall for over 100,000 Kona Electric vehicles due to safety concerns related to battery monitoring software. The recall specifically affects units produced between January 24, 2018, and July 15, 2023.
Recall Overview
A total of 104,011 Kona Electric vehicles are potentially impacted worldwide, with 13,523 units registered in Germany alone. The German federal motor authority (KBA) reported that the faulty software may not adequately monitor thermal instability in the high-voltage battery, which increases the risk of fire.
Software Update and Remedial Actions
To address this issue, Hyundai will install an updated version of the battery management system (BMS) control unit at workshops. This new software will improve monitoring functions to detect potential thermal issues more effectively.
- Software will detect voltage differences between battery cells sooner.
- In some cases, high-voltage batteries may be replaced as a precaution.
Production and Historical Context
The recall pertains exclusively to the first-generation Kona Electric. A new generation was introduced in 2023, which features different batteries and is not affected by this recall. Notably, this is not Hyundai’s first battery-related recall for this model. In 2020, over 25,000 units were recalled in South Korea due to a defect in battery cells supplied by LG Chem.
Battery Variants and Affected Units
The Kona Electric was available with two battery options: 39.2 kWh and 64 kWh. Speculation indicates that only vehicles built in South Korea, identified by a VIN starting with ‘KMHK,’ might be affected. Most Kona Electric units imported to Europe were delivered prior to 2020, while subsequent units were produced at Hyundai’s plant in the Czech Republic.
Customer Communication
As of now, inquiries directed at Hyundai for clarification on the affected vehicle models have not received a response. Concerns regarding the specifics of the recall persist among customers, particularly in online forums.
For further details, interested parties may refer to the KBA recall database. Hyundai aims to ensure the safety of its vehicles while maintaining customer trust in its automotive offerings.
