Almost 5000 Hyundai electric vehicles recalled in Australia due to charging fire risk

Hyundai is recalling nearly 5,000 electric vehicles in Australia due to a potentially serious battery fault that could cause fires during charging or when parked. The recall affects two popular models: the Kona EV produced from 2018 to 2023 and the Ioniq EV manufactured between 2018 and 2022. This local action is part of a wider global recall involving over 100,000 vehicles, following warnings issued by Hyundai earlier this year. The issue centres on a software defect within the Battery Management System, which may trigger an electrical short circuit, increasing the risk of fire. The Australian government’s transport department has confirmed that owners of 3,478 Kona EVs and 1,402 Ioniq EVs will be contacted by Hyundai to arrange inspections. Dealers will then diagnose the battery systems and apply either a software update or hardware repair to mitigate the risk. This is not the first time Hyundai has faced battery-related recalls for its electric vehicles in Australia. The Ioniq model was previously recalled in 2021 due to a manufacturing defect in the battery pack. Despite these incidents, electric vehicle fires remain relatively rare in Australia, with only 13 reported cases between 2021 and early 2026, many of which were caused by external factors such as collisions or arson. The recall highlights ongoing challenges for manufacturers in ensuring the safety and reliability of EV battery technology as adoption grows. Hyundai’s proactive response aims to prevent any potential injuries or fatalities linked to battery fires. Owners are advised to respond promptly to recall notices to ensure their vehicles are inspected and repaired without delay.