Hyundai Ioniq to have three electric options within single body
Korean manufacturer sets its sights on Toyota Prius with a full electric vehicle, plug-in hybrid and full hybrid
Hyundai’s Ioniq will be the first car on the market to have three electric powertrain options with a single body. You will be able to have a full electric vehicle, a plug-in hybrid or full hybrid.
Hyundai will start with the hybrid. This will match a 1.6-litre GDi engine with a lithium-ion battery and electric motor. The engine gives 103bhp, which has an additional 43bhp added by the electric motor. As is the way of these things, the electric motors brings in more torque, 125lb ft, compared to the traditional petrol engine’s 108lb ft.
As yet, details for the other two power set-ups has not been revealed. But like the hybrid, drive will be to the front wheels courtesy of a six-speed dual-clutch auto transmission. Hyundai are claiming a class-leading efficiency for the transmission.
The powerplants will be housed in a new platform, one which has been built in collaboration with sister company Kia. Handling should be good as Hyundai are aiming for a ride that offers some fun as well as efficiency.
The exterior is very aerodynamic, again a class-leader according to Hyundai, with an interior which looks fairly minimalist and clutter-free. There appear to be some influences from the Tuscon, including the digital touchscreen located between the two centre air vents.
Hyundai are claiming some firsts with the Ioniq as well as class-leading figures for everything from aerodynamic efficiency to the range of power options. The Toyota Prius is firmly in the sights of the Korean manufacturer, who see the Ioniq as a new departure for them.
As Hyundai says: ‘As the world’s first model to offer customers the choice of three powertrain options, the Ionic combines class-leading fuel efficiency with a fun, responsive drive and attractive design – a unique mix not yet achieved by a hybrid vehicle.’
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