Hyundai IONIQ 5 SUVs investigated for reports of power loss

US auto safety regulators are investigating the Hyundai IONIQ 5 electric SUV after 30 complaints were sent to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) over reports of power loss.

Hyundai IONIQ 5 investigated reports of power loss

NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) is investigating the power loss issue covering the 2022 model year Hyundai IONQ 5 electric SUVs.

The department says many of the consumers have reported “a loud pop noise followed by a warning on their dashboard and immediately experiencing a loss of power ranging from a reduction to a complete loss of power.”

Hyundai has since told NHTSA investigators that power loss issues are related to the Integrated Control Charging Unit (ICCU) that powers the EV batteries.

ODI’s initial review suggests that when the ICCU receives too much current, it can damage transistors, resulting in an inability to charge the 12V battery.

The department says it is opening the preliminary evaluation to determine the scope and severity of the potential problem.

During the evaluation, the agency will collect data on complaints at the same time that the manufacturer can present material.

Hyundai said it is cooperating fully with the investigation in a statement on Monday, explaining that it will launch a service campaign next month that will update the affected vehicles’ software and replace the ICCU if necessary.

ODI has initiated several interviews that confirm various problems with power loss, but none of the reports have been linked to crashes or injuries.

The IONIQ 5 is Hyundai’s first dedicated electric vehicle. Based on the E-GMP platform, the IONIQ 5 offers up to the 303 EPA est range, which starts at $41,450.

Hyundai has sold over 10,500 IONIQ 5 models (as of 31 May 2023) this year as it works towards its goal of becoming one of the top three global electric car manufacturers by 2030.

Once the evaluation is complete, NHTSA can either close the investigation or move into the next phase. The survey covers 39,559 IONIQ 5 models. We will keep you updated on the situation as more information is made public.