US to investigate automakers Hyundai and Kia about vehicle fires

US security authorities will investigate nearly three million Hyundai and Kia vehicles following fires, which could lead to mbad recalls.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) investigation follows thousands of complaints about "non-accident fires".

Incidents involving fires are related to one death and more than 100 injuries.

This raises new security concerns of South Korean automakers, who have already been the subject of scrutiny in the United States.

NHTSA said that fire and engine problems have affected about six million Hyundai and Kia vehicles since 2015. So far, only about 2.4 million have been recalled for repair.

The latest survey covers Hyundai Sonatas and Hyundai Santa Fes, as well as Kia Optimas, Kia Sorentos and Kia Souls.

The US safety agency said that although the Kia and Hyundai vehicles recalled earlier were mainly related to engine fires, the new investigation "is not limited to engine components and may cover additional systems or components of the vehicle. ".

Both manufacturers said they cooperate with the investigation.

It was launched by NHTSA as a result of a petition from the Consumer Advocacy Group, the Center for Auto Safety.

Jason Levine, executive director of the group, said in a statement that it was "long ago" to get answers on "why so many thousands of Kia and Hyundai vehicles have been involved in non-accidental fires ".

"Hopefully this step will quickly lead to a reminder issued as quickly as possible.

"In fact, thorough investigations do not protect the owners of Kia and Hyundai – this requires reminders that result in effective repairs."

South Korean prosecutors are conducting separate investigations of automakers during the recalls.