Hyundai IONIQ breaks the hybrid stereotype

Hyundai Ioniq


Hyundai Motor has unveiled the hybrid version of its new IONIQ – an advanced, alternative-fuel compact vehicle. The IONIQ will be available with a choice of three powertrains unmatched by any other car in the world: electric; plug-in gasoline/electric hybrid; and gasoline/electric hybrid.

Hyundai Ioniq
Hyundai Ioniq
Hyundai IoniqHyundai Ioniq

“The launching event announced to the world the start of new future mobility and our will for technological innovation,” said Moon-Sik Kwon, Vice Chairman at Hyundai Motor R&D Centre. “IONIQ has been developed incorporating all of our technological capacities. The hybrid, pursuing the highest efficiency in its class, is economically efficient and stays true to the fundamentals of a car by delivering fun to drive through a modern design and dynamic driving performance,” he added.

The IONIQ Hybrid responds to rapidly changing customer lifestyles by breaking the mould for hybrid vehicles. It not only offers class-leading fuel efficiency but also a fun, responsive drive and attractive design – a unique mix not yet achieved by a hybrid vehicle.

The IONIQ Hybrid is equipped with a newly developed, dedicated 1.6 GDI four-cylinder Kappa engine and a 32 kW (44 PS) electric motor, which is fed by an advanced Lithium-Ion polymer battery. The two powertrains have combined maximum output of 104 kW (141 PS) and 265 Nm (27 kg.m) of torque. A new six-speed dual-clutch transmission (6DCT) provides responsive performance and a slick gear shift, resulting in an entertaining drive, and good fuel economy.

The IONIQ’s coupe-like silhouette is streamlined to efficiently manage airflow. Combined with active and passive aero features, this helps it achieve an outstanding drag coefficient of just 0.24 Cd, making it one of the most aerodynamic cars on sale.

To suit customers’ varied lifestyles, the IONIQ also offers a host of advanced comfort, convenience, safety and connectivity features, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, catering for the vast majority of smartphone users. A 7-inch TFT information cluster brings a high-tech appearance to the cockpit, displaying a range of digital gauges in high resolution, including a number of hybrid-specific displays.

Based on an exclusive new platform, the driving performance of the IONIQ is similar to that of a regular compact car, thanks to its responsive hybrid powertrain. Ride and handling as well as noise, vibration and harshness levels are specially tuned to contribute to a superior ride quality as well as being quiet and comfortable on long journeys.

To complement the IONIQ’s long list of high-tech features, a host of innovative future-ready active and passive safety features protect the driver and passenger. Electronic systems like Autonomous Emergency Brake, Lane Keeping Assist System, Lane Departure Warning System, and Blind Spot Detection with Rear Cross Traffic Alert provide guidance to avoid any accident. Seven airbags including a knee-airbag for the driver, as well as structural body enhancements, enabled by adapting 53% of the body with Advanced High Strength Steel, give the IONIQ’s chassis superior rigidity for responsive handling and enhanced safety.

The new car’s name references elements of its creation. An ion is an electrically-charged atom, linking to the car’s clever combination of electrified powertrains. The second part of the name references the unique offering it brings to the Hyundai range, demonstrating the brand’s environmental commitment and willingness to maximize choice for its customers. Finally, the Q is depicted in the car’s logo as a visual breakthrough, acknowledging the fresh new approach of this advanced, low-emission model.

Thomas A. Schmid, Chief Operating Officer at Hyundai Motor Europe said: “We have already demonstrated our credentials in alternative technologies, by being the first to mass produce and sell fuel cell electric vehicles – and customers have chosen our ix35 Fuel Cell more than any other hydrogen-powered model. With the launch of IONIQ, we will expand our model range and add new sustainable solutions, offering a wider range of alternative powertrains than any other manufacturer.”

Jochen Sengpiehl, Vice President Marketing at Hyundai Motor Europe, said: “IONIQ is another milestone for our brand in Europe, and brings a new approach to electrification and mobility. We are making innovative technology and advanced connectivity more accessible, reflecting the expectations of customers in our digitalised world. Unique in the market, IONIQ will be our new ambassador, setting a new benchmark.”

All three versions will be unveiled at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show in March. The IONIQ Hybrid variant will be the first to come to market in Europe, during the second half of this year.

www.hyundai.com

Hyundai Press

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