Hyundai has finally lifted the curtains off its much awaited alternative-fuel compact vehicle. The Korean car maker launched the all-new model in its domestic market before making it available for markets worldwide.
The Ioniq’s shape is derived out of the aerodynamic requirements to help it attain a drag coefficient of just 0.24. This is exactly why the design lends it a similar appearance to the Toyota Prius and Honda Insight. Though Hyundai will also make a fully electric version of the Ioniq unlike segment contenders, the car maker only showcased the hybrid version for now.
"The launch event announced a new start to future mobility and Hyundai’s will for technological innovation to the world. Hyundai Motor will spearhead efforts to become the global number two in the green car market by introducing over 22 models in the eco-friendly car line-up by 2020," said Moon-Sik Kwon, Vice Chairman at Hyundai Motor R&D Center.
"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 the fun to drive through a modern design and dynamic driving performance," he added.
A new 1.6-litre Kappa engine that puts out 104bhp and 146Nm of torque has been mated to an electric motor that adds 35bhp more. This translates into a combined output of 139bhp and 264Nm on to the wheels through a new six-speed dual-clutch transmission. A lithium-ion polymer battery pack feeds the electric motor that is concealed under the rear seat.
Hyundai has electrified the interiors with a seven-inch instrument display, inductive wireless phone charging along with Apple CarPlay and Android compatibility. It features all the latest safety systems such as blind spot warning, lane-keeping assist and autonomous emergency braking.
For now, the rest of the world will just need to wait it out, and watch when Hyundai will offer the Ioniq in the overseas markets, and that’s once the Korean roads warm up to this Hybrid.
