Newark, New Jersey is joining other cities, including New York, in filing a lawsuit against Hyundai and Kia. The lawsuit alleges that the car manufacturers knowingly neglected to include anti-theft technology in their vehicles. The issue came to light through a viral TikTok video, and as a result, vehicle thefts involving Hyundai and Kia models in Newark rose by more than 1,200%.
In 2022, Newark reported 110 thefts of Hyundai and Kia vehicles. However, within the first 10 months of 2023, that number skyrocketed to over 1,900 thefts. This significant increase in thefts prompted the city to take legal action against the car manufacturers.
When contacted for comments, Kia responded by stating that claims of their lack of response to the situation were inaccurate and unhelpful. They also emphasized that car owners have various options available to them. Hyundai, on the other hand, claimed that they have implemented extensive initiatives to enhance the security of their vehicles that still lack engine immobilizers.
The lawsuit is a consequence of the growing concern over vehicle thefts and the absence of necessary security measures in Hyundai and Kia models. Newark’s decision to join the legal action reflects the rising demand for car manufacturers to prioritize the safety and protection of their customers’ vehicles.
As the case moves forward, the outcome will likely have implications not only for Hyundai and Kia but also for other car manufacturers. This lawsuit serves as a reminder that companies must ensure the inclusion of adequate anti-theft technology in their vehicles to protect consumers from potential thefts.
The rise in vehicle thefts in Newark is a cause for alarm, as it not only results in financial loss for individuals but also poses a significant safety risk to the community. The city’s decision to seek legal action against Hyundai and Kia aims to hold these manufacturers accountable for their alleged failure to address this issue.
In conclusion, Newark has joined the wave of cities suing Hyundai and Kia due to the absence of anti-theft technology in their vehicles. The viral TikTok video exposing this flaw sparked a surge in thefts in the city. With the lawsuit, Newark hopes to bring attention to the need for car manufacturers to prioritize security features and protect consumers from potential thefts.