Global Tech Roundup: Kia and Hyundai Recall 500,000 Vehicles, HBO CEO Richard Plepler Quits

Another exciting week is running out and as usual, several major stories made the headlines both locally and on the global stage. So let’s give you a quick round up of tech events that happened round the world during the week.

Kia and Hyundai Recall 500,000 Vehicles

Kia Motors along with its parent automaker, Hyundai are recalling at least 500,000 vehicles in the US due to mechanical faults that could lead to fire outbreak.

Vehicles affected include: 380,000 Kia Soul vehicles built between 2012 and 2016; 32,000 Kia Sportage SUV’s manufactured between 2011 and 2013; and 95,000 Kia Sedona minivans manufactured between 2015 and 2018.

Affected vehicles will be fixed free of charge.

Kia and Hyundai have now recalled more than 2.3 million vehicles in the last four years due to engine fire risks. Now we have to wonder, how about those model of Kia and Hyundai vehicles that have been shipped to Nigeria?

HBO CEO Richard Plepler Quits

CEO of American cable and satellite network, Home Box Office (HBO) has announced his intention to quit the company he joined way back in 1992.

Mr Plepler who has been CEO since 2013 didn’t offer any specific reason for leaving the company except that it is the right time to do so.

“Hard as it is to think about leaving the company I love, and the people I love in it, it is the right time for me to do so.”

Richard Plepler

It will be recalled that HBO parent company, Time Warner was acquired by AT&T several months ago. Mr Plepler’s departure might not be unconnected with that development. We wish him well in future endeavours.

Uber Reportedly Set to Give Drivers Cash to Buy Shares at IPO

Global ride-hailing company, Uber, is planning an Initial Public Offer (IPO) which many consider one the most anticipated listings in the world. To ensure its drivers are integral parts of the company, Uber is reportedly planning to give its drivers money so they too can buy into the company.

But not every Uber driver will qualify for such a treat though as only the longest-serving and most active drivers would be so rewarded. The drivers also have a choice of either investing the money into the IPO are doing anything else with it.

Drivers outside of the US may not be able to buy shares due to security laws but they will be rewarded with the cash nonetheless. So if you know a long-serving and dedicated Uber driver, he’s probably about to come into some money soon enough.