April 23, 2024

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[THE INVESTOR] Hyundai Motor and affiliate Kia Motors said on Oct. 18 they are reviewing a US request to testify in regards to engine fires in their cars next month.

Hyundai and Kia’s U.S. operations received the request from the Senate Commerce Committee to appear at a hearing on Nov. 14 on reports of engine fires in their vehicles. Management is “currently reviewing” the request, a Hyundai spokesman said over the phone.  

The request follows safety concerns raised by nonprofit US consumer rights group Center for Auto Safety over engine fires in Hyundai and Kia vehicles that were not involved in collisions. Over 100 fire complaints have been filed with US safety authorities since June 12 and consumers have demanded 3 million vehicles be recalled immediately, according to foreign news media reports. 

Hyundai and Kia said they will swiftly recall any vehicles with components that have safety-related defects. The two carmakers together form the world’s fifth-biggest carmaker by sales.

By Song Seung-hyun and newswires (ssh@heraldcorp.com)