Hyundai Motor have named their alternative-fuel compact vehicle due for 2016 launch, the Hyundai IONIQ. With an electric, plug-in gasoline/electric hybrid or gasoline/electric hybrid powertrain , becoming the first car from any manufacturer to offer the three powertrain options in a single body type.
IONIQ is a combination of the electrically charged-atom , an ION, used to power the model whilst the ‘IQ’ comes from Unique, demonstrating the unique offering it brings to the Hyundai range with the Q depicted in the logo of the car.
Providing class-leading fuel efficiency with a fun, responsive drive and attractive design it aims to break the mould that other hybrid vehicles have failed to achieve. The chassis is designed to optimise the responsive handling whilst remaining efficient across the three powertrain configurations.
In its fully-electric (EV) form, the IONIQ is powered by a high capacity, ultra-efficient lithium ion battery. The plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version combines fuel-efficient energy with battery power obtained by charging the car with electricity, boosting its range while cutting its emissions. Finally, the hybrid (HEV) utilizes the petrol engine and motion of the car to charge the on-board battery, which returns enhanced efficiency by supplementing the engine’s power.
“Hyundai Motor has a heritage of building innovative, fuel-efficient vehicles, so we are proud to advance our eco-friendly car line-up with the introduction of IONIQ. Our vision for future mobility focuses on choice, with a variety of powertrain options to suit customers’ varied lifestyles, without compromising on design or driving enjoyment. IONIQ embodies Hyundai Motor’s vision to shift the automotive paradigm and future mobility; IONIQ is the fruit of our efforts to become the leader in the global green car market.” – Woong-Chul Yang,Head of Hyundai Motor R&D Centre.
Following its world premiere in Korea in January, the IONIQ is due to be shown at the Geneva International Motor Show, followed by the New York Auto Show, both in March 2016.
