Hyundai Motor Company Australia has recalled 796 vehicles from its Kona Electric SUV 2018-2020 range due to a potential fault with the lithium-ion battery and battery management system that may lead to a vehicle fire.

According to the recall notice issued with the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission, “the Lithium-ion battery may have internal damage or the battery management system control software may cause an electrical short circuit after charging.”

“…if an electric short circuit occurs, this could result in a vehicle fire which can increase the risk of serious injury or death to vehicle occupants, bystanders and/or damage to property.”

The recall notice goes on stating “Affected vehicles need to be parked in an open space and away from flammable materials and structures, that is, not in a garage”.

“Consumers should only charge their vehicles up to 90 per cent of its battery capacity”.

Hyundai Australia will notify affected vehicle owners of the defect and encourage them to contact their local/preferred dealership to have the battery diagnosed for a software update or battery cell rectification.

A full list of the affected vehicles can be found here 

For further information, consumers can contact Hyundai’s Customer Care Centre on 1800 186 306.

Source: Car Advice | 2018-2020 Hyundai Kona Electric recalled over battery fault

20 November 2020