Chicago blames car makers as thieves livestream thefts

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson is taking action to address the increasing number of car thefts in the city: filing a lawsuit against automakers. The city has filed a civil suit against Kia Corp and Hyundai Motor Co, accusing them of not including engine immobilisers in certain models. This oversight has led to a significant rise in vehicle thefts, reckless driving, property damage, and related violent crimes in Chicago, according to a statement released on Thursday.

Thefts of Kia and Hyundai cars have been on the rise across the United States after security flaws were exposed by social media users, which sparked a phenomenon known as the “Kia Challenge.” This involves individuals livestreaming their car thefts. In response, at least 20 state attorneys in the US have called on Hyundai and Kia to improve anti-theft measures. Meanwhile, New York Mayor Eric Adams has blamed social media for influencing younger people in engaging in criminal activities.

Chicago has been particularly impacted by vehicle thefts, which have increased during the pandemic and added to concerns about rising crime rates, including carjackings. Thus far, more than 19,000 cars have been stolen in Chicago this year, a figure that has doubled compared to last year and tripled compared to 2019. In the second half of 2022 alone, 8,350 Kia and Hyundai vehicles were stolen in Chicago, compared to just 500 in the first six months of the year, according to the city’s records.

“A citywide and nationwide crime spree surrounding automobile theft is unfolding right before our eyes,” stated Mayor Johnson, who has been in office for slightly over 100 days.

In response to the lawsuit, Hyundai has stated its commitment to assisting customers and communities affected by vehicle thefts. They clarify that engine immobilisers are now standard on all Hyundai vehicles produced since November 2021. However, their failure to address the issue sooner has resulted in legal consequences.

Failure to effectively address violence was one of the primary reasons why former Mayor Lori Lightfoot lost her re-election bid this year. She became the first mayor to lose a re-election since 1983.