Safety probe launched in 40,000 Hyundai after reports of power loss

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) regulators are looking into reports of power loss problems in Hyundai Ioniq 5 vehicles.

NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) said it has received 30 consumer complaints “alleging loss of propulsion” in 2022 model year Hyundai Ioniq 5 vehicles.

About 39,500 of the vehicles are estimated to be in the affected population, according to an ODI document.

“Many consumers report a loud pop noise followed by a warning that appears in the dashboard and immediately experience a loss of power ranging from a reduction to a complete loss of power,” ODI said in an update on the open investigation.

ODI says it has learned from Hyundai that the power failure is related to a charging system responsible for powering the hybrid vehicle and low-voltage 1[ads1]2-volt batteries.

“Preliminary review indicates that overcurrent in the ICCU (Integrated Control Charing Unit) may damage transistors (FETs) in the LDC (DC-to-DC converter) resulting in inability to charge the 12V battery,” ODI said.

The office is opening a preliminary evaluation to determine “the scope and severity of the potential problem and to fully assess the potential safety-related issues.”

Hyundai spokesman Ira Gabriel has said the company is cooperating fully with the investigation and plans to update the software on affected vehicles starting next month, according to the Associated Press, and the company will also replace the charging unit if necessary.