Hyundai Motor Company has recalled more than 54,000 hybrid vehicles in the United States after regulators identified a fire risk linked to overheating in a key power system.
The recall affects 54,337 units of the 2024-2026 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
NHTSA said the problem involves the Hybrid Power Control Unit, or HPCU. The system controls energy flow and power functions in hybrid vehicles.
Regulators warned that overheating inside the unit could stop vehicles from starting or force them into reduced power mode while driving.
NHTSA also said excessive heat may damage internal vehicle components and increase safety risks.
Industry analysts say modern hybrid vehicles rely heavily on electronic control systems. Faults inside these systems can affect performance, battery management and vehicle safety.
Hyundai said affected customers can receive a free software update at authorised dealerships across the United States.
Drivers Asked to Check VIN Numbers
Hyundai urged owners of affected vehicles to verify whether their cars fall under the recall by checking the company’s recall website or the NHTSA database.
Drivers must enter their Vehicle Identification Number, commonly known as the VIN, to confirm eligibility.
The company said customers do not need to wait for an official recall notice before scheduling service appointments.
Owners can contact authorised dealerships online or by phone to arrange the software update.
Technicians will install updated software for the Hybrid Power Control Unit during the appointment.
Hyundai said dealerships will complete the service free of charge.
The automaker added that most vehicles will not require hardware replacement because the recall focuses on correcting software functions.
Customers should also request confirmation that technicians successfully applied the update and keep service records for future use.
Hybrid and EV Safety Faces Growing Scrutiny
Safety regulators worldwide have increased oversight of hybrid and electric vehicles as automakers expand production of electrified models.
Authorities in the United States, Europe and Asia have recently investigated overheating risks, battery failures and software related problems in electric vehicles.
Hyundai has faced earlier recalls involving electric and hybrid systems, including previous issues linked to battery safety in Kona Electric models.
The latest recall comes as global automakers continue competing aggressively in the growing hybrid vehicle market.
Analysts say software based recalls have become more common because modern vehicles depend heavily on digital systems and electronic controls.
Many manufacturers now rely on software updates instead of large scale mechanical repairs to address technical problems.
