A new compact car set to launch in 2016, referred to as the Hyundai IONIQ, was recently unveiled by the Korean automaker. It is now set to make its official world debut in January.
Interestingly, 3 different versions of the model will be available, each with a different powertrain option — there’ll be an all-electric (EV) version, a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version, and a conventional hybrid (HEV) version. These 3 different options, though, will possess the exact same (or nearly so) body design.
After the official debut in Korea in January, the model will then be shown in March at the Geneva International Motor Show and the New York Auto Show.
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Based on an exclusive new platform, made specifically for the car’s multi-powertrain options, the IONIQ chassis is optimized to deliver responsive handling while remaining efficient in each of its three power train configurations.
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.
The Head of Hyundai Motor R&D Center, Woong-Chul Yang, commented: “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.”
As of 2014, Hyundai was selling around 5 million vehicles a year globally, so the wide release of a mass-market EV (as the IONIQ sounds like it may be) is worth taking note of.