Loss of power: Kia EV6 under investigation from NHTSA

• Eleven complaints have been registered so far.

• NHTSA is also investigating Hyundai Ioniq 5.

• Will Genesis GV60 be the next vehicle affected by these power loss issues?

Kia‘s EV6 crossover is currently under investigation by the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) following reports of powertrain power loss, according to Automotive News.

NHTSA’s Office of Manufacturing Defects Investigation reports that it has received 11 complaints to date. This mechanical problem is a reminder that the EV6’s cousin, the Hyundai Ioniq 5, is also the subject of a similar investigation.

Let’s not forget that the vehicles are based on the same common platform, also known as the E-GMP (for Electric Global Modular Platform), and that both models use the same mechanical components. In fact, it’s fair to wonder about the Korean group’s other all-electric crossover, the Genesis GV60.

The trouble that prompted this NHTSA investigation reports a popping sound followed by a warning on the dashboard display and a loss of power or even a complete shutdown of the vehicle. The American agency has already concluded that there is a correlation between the loss of power and the failure of the integrated charge control unit that supplies the batteries.

At this time, no fewer than 20,000 Kia EV6s were affected by this investigation, which could also turn into a recall campaign if NHTSA authorities deem it necessary.

The trouble with this type of trouble is that the defective unit, also known as an ICCU, seems to be hard to find, forcing dealers to keep vehicles stationary while parts are being sent in.

Hyundai, which is also grappling with the same kind of problem with its Ioniq 5 SUV, is cooperating with the NHTSA and is committed to replacing ICCUs if it deems that repair of the component is necessary.