Do not go gentle into that good night, old age should burn and rave at close of day; Rage, rage against the dying of the light, though wise men at their end know dark is right, because their words had forked no lightning they, do not go gentle into that good night.
Free EV safety inspections expanded to electric buses, motorcycles
Electric buses are stationed at Pyeongtaek Port in this undated photo. Korea Times file
By Jhoo Dong-chan
Amid the rapid proliferation of electric vehicles (EVs) and persistent public concerns over battery-related fires, the government announced Thursday a significant expansion of its annual EV safety inspection program. For the first time, the free initiative will cast a wider net to include electric buses and motorcycles.
The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport said the expanded effort builds upon a proactive fire prevention campaign initiated in 2023, which had previously focused almost exclusively on passenger cars. By extending the inspection program to public transit and two-wheeled vehicles, officials hope to mitigate hazards across a broader swath of the country’s transportation network.
Thirty-four manufacturers have committed to participating in this year's program, comprising 15 makers of passenger vehicles, six bus manufacturers and 13 motorcycle companies.
The importance of the government’s safety campaign is underscored by its recent track record. In 2025, technicians inspected more than 300,000 EVs nationwide. During the routine inspections, mechanics identified roughly 24,000 abnormal conditions, allowing service centers to address potential hazards before they could escalate into battery fires or other roadside accidents, according to the ministry.
Recognizing the ongoing need for rigorous maintenance, several major automakers are now conducting checks year-round, bypassing the limitations of a restricted inspection window. That roster of manufacturers includes Hyundai Motor and Kia, alongside foreign brands such as Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen, Audi, Stellantis and Jaguar Land Rover, as well as SAP and EM Korea. For companies operating on specific timetables, owners will receive direct text message notifications regarding their inspection schedules and locations, and can also book appointments through local service centers.
Mechanics will examine core battery packs, the cooling systems responsible for regulating thermal stability and other high-voltage electrical components susceptible to wear. Technicians are also tasked with physically evaluating the battery’s exterior for signs of impact damage or structural deterioration.
Beyond hardware diagnostics, the initiative will ensure that the vehicles’ digital infrastructure remains current. Manufacturers will install the latest software updates for battery management systems — the critical onboard technology that monitors real-time voltage, current, and temperature. Facilities will simultaneously screen vehicles for outstanding safety recalls, allowing owners to complete pending repairs during the same visit.
This article was published with the assistance of generative AI and edited by The Korea Times.