Nearly 46,000 electric vehicles recalled in Canada over power loss risk

This photo provided by Hyundai shows the 2022 Ioniq 5. (Hyundai Motor America via AP)

Nearly 46,000 electric vehicles are being recalled in Canada over a potential power loss issue that can increase the risk of a crash.

Announced this week, the recalls affect certain 2022 to 2025 models from Kia, Hyundai and Genesis. A total of 45,974 electric vehicles are impacted in Canada. More than half of these vehicles were subject to similar recalls earlier this year and will need to be repaired again. The same issue has led to a recall of more than 208,000 vehicles in the U.S.

According to Transport Canada's recall notices, the integrated charging control unit in these vehicles can become damaged over time. If this occurs, an auxiliary battery will not charge and the vehicle will go into a reduced power mode.

"If this happens, and you continue to drive the vehicle, there could be a loss of power to the wheels," Transport Canada cautioned. "A loss of power to the wheels could increase the risk of a crash."

A warning light and messages should appear before losing power.

The recalls affect the following models:

In a statement to CTVNews.ca, a Hyundai and Genesis Canada spokesperson said there have been no confirmed crashes or injuries related to this issue in Canada or the U.S.

"Upon fault detection, and accompanied by a series of driver warnings, the vehicle will enter a design-intended 'fail-safe' driving mode that allows immediate full propulsion while gradually reducing motive power over time as the vehicle’s battery is discharged," the spokesperson explained. "Vehicle systems such as air bags, braking, and powered steering remain operational. If the vehicle is driven until the 12-volt battery state-of-charge is fully depleted the vehicle will lose all motive power, potentially increasing the risk of a crash."

Kia did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The separate but affiliated South Korean automakers will notify affected owners by mail to arrange for a free software update, inspection and possible repair by a dealer. More than 26,000 of these vehicles were impacted by related Kia, Hyundai and Genesis recalls in March 2024 and will need to be seen again.

"This new recall includes… additional units produced from March 2024 through November 2024," the Hyundai and Genesis Canada spokesperson said.

Transport Canada generally relies on automakers to report defects and issue recalls.

"Both Kia Canada and Hyundai Canada informed Transport Canada of a defect affecting the integrated charging control unit (ICCU) in some of their electric vehicles," a Transport Canada spokesperson told CTVNews.ca. "Transport Canada recommends that all vehicle owners register their vehicle with the manufacturer to ensure they are notified when a safety recall is issued, and to make arrangements to have any recalls repaired as soon as possible when they are notified to do so."

With files from The Associated Press