2021 Hyundai Kona Electric Loss Of Drive Power

The owners of certain 2021 Hyundai Kona Electric vehicles could experience a loss of drive power due to a manufacturing error affecting the Electric Power Control Unit (EPCU) in their vehicles.

Hyundai became aware of the problem when they were contacted by their EPCU manufacturer about a potential problem with some EPCUs. An investigation was initiated to confirm the number of affected models and a recall was called. Based on the findings, Hyundai will be recalling certain 2021 Hyundai Kona EV vehicles in the U.S. to address the defect condition involving the vehicles’ EPCU

According to the defect report, the EPCU’s DC-DC converter housing may have been insufficiently sealed due to inadequate steam cleaning during manufacturing. Insufficient sealing of the converter housing could lead to an internal coolant leak that could contaminate the EPCU main controller. This could cause the vehicle’s limited mobility “fail safe” drive mode to initiate or, in limited instances, a sudden loss of motive power. A Malfunction Indicator Lamp (MIL) illumination B, “Check Electric Vehicle System” warning message will be displayed.

Owners will be asked to return to their dealers to have the EPCU inspected and replaced as necessary. Hyundai's number for this recall is 239 and the NHTSA campaign number is 22V-941. Hyundai knows of 3 unique incidents reporting a loss of motive power in the U.S.