Hyundai and Kia recall 39,000 EVs over battery fire risks amid stricter scrutiny

Another blow to EV safety: Hyundai and Kia's latest recall revives fears over battery defects. Can new fire suppression tech restore trust in electric mobility?

, and Administrator

2026 February 25 . 10:13 AM

1 min read

The image shows a Lexus IS F race car parked in front of a building with glass walls and pillars.... — The image shows a Lexus IS F race car parked in front of a building with glass walls and pillars. There is a fire extinguisher nearby and a few people in the background.

Hyundai and Kia recall 39,000 EVs over battery fire risks amid stricter scrutiny

Hyundai and Kia are recalling over 39,000 electric vehicles in South Korea due to battery fire risks. The move comes after a major battery plus recall in 2023, raising further concerns about EV safety.

Regulators are now considering stricter rules on battery supplier transparency as global scrutiny grows.

Hyundai is pulling back 37,690 EVs, while Kia is recalling 1,590 units. The issue stems from potential delays in detecting overheating, which could lead to fires. This follows a 2023 recall where Hyundai replaced batteries in 82,000 Kona Electric models after fire incidents.

In response to safety concerns, Hyundai Mobis has developed a new fire suppression system. The technology injects coolant directly into battery cells to prevent thermal runaway. Testing began around 2020–2021, with pilot trials in EVs, though a full rollout date remains unclear.

South Korean authorities are now reviewing proposals to mandate battery plus supplier disclosure. The push aligns with global efforts to improve EV safety standards and accountability.

The latest recall highlights ongoing challenges with EV car battery safety. Hyundai and Kia face renewed pressure to address fire risks as regulators tighten oversight. Meanwhile, Hyundai Mobis continues refining its suppression technology for future use.