US to investigate Kia and Hyundai cars over fires

According to a media report, the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) will investigate nearly 3 million Hyundai and Kia vehicles over fire concerns, potentially prompting recalls.

The investigation was launched after the Center for Auto Safety, a consumer group petitioned the NHTSA. It is reported that incidents involving a non-crash vehicle fire have resulted in 1 death and over 100 injuries.

Affected models include the Hyundai Sonata, Santa Fe, Kia Optima, Sorento and Soul. The safety regulator said that the investigation is not restricted to engine components, but could also cover additional vehicle systems.

According to NHTSA, since 2015, over 6 million Hyundai and Kia vehicles were affected due to fire and engine problems, but only 2.4 million have been recalled. Both the South Korean carmakers have stated that they were cooperating with the authorities.

Source: BBC