Connected Car
Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson has a plan to help tackle soaring car thefts in the city: Sue the automakers. Thefts of Kia and Hyundai cars have surged across the country after social media users exposed security flaws, sparking what’s been termed the “Kia Challenge” where people livestream their larceny. Chicago has been particularly hard hit by vehicle theft, which took off during the pandemic and added to broader concerns over spiraling crime, including carjackings. Some 8,350 Kia and Hyundai vehicles were stolen in the second half of 2022 in Chicago, from just 500 in the first six months of the year, according to the city. Engine immobilisers, meanwhile, are now standard on all Hyundai vehicles produced since November 2021.