The new Hyundai IONIQ family is finally unveiled with updated hybrid, plug-in hybrid and electric versions.
Let’s see some highlights about the one that matters, the electric.
The new IONIQ Electric’s battery has been upgraded from 28 kWh to 38.3 kWh, meaning drivers can go even further between charges. It boasts 36% additional energy storage capacity, offering a total of 294 kms of range (internal target under WLTP regulations). Its e-motor delivers a maximum power of 136 PS and 295 Nm of torque and is fitted standard with a 7.2-kW on-board charger – an upgrade from current 6.6-kW – for Type 2 AC charging. Using a 100-kW fast-charging station, the battery can reach 80% charge in as little as 54 minutes.
New IONIQ Electric specs
As well as the new convenience features, the new IONIQ’s reimagined interior incorporates new design factors to enhance its sophisticated image. In addition to standard black seat trims, customers have the option of four leather seat colours: Black, Gray two-tone, Red Umber (exclusive for hybrid and plug-in) and Electric Shadow (exclusive to electric version). Meanwhile, the dashboard garnish arrives in Dark Chrome Accent.
New Hyundai IONIQ Electric interior
Below the new wide screen 10.25-inch AVN screen, the control panel for heating and climate control has been redesigned and sports a sleek, glossy finish. New touch-type control buttons allow for intuitive operation of heating, ventilation and air conditioning. The IONIQ Electric standard high-resolution 7-inch LCD console display (optional for hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions) has been improved with mood lighting to visualise the different drive mode themes. To round off the improved modern interior design, blue ambient lighting has been applied across the passenger-side lower dashboard and the centre console.
New Hyundai IONIQ Electric interior
The new IONIQ features Hyundai Blue Link, a connected vehicle system which uses embedded telematics to allow drivers of IONIQ Electric to remote start and stop, while all versions allow remote lock or unlock and control air conditioning via a smartphone app. This technology also allows owners of the plug-in or electric model to remotely check the status of their battery so they know when they need to recharge the vehicle. Thanks to Blue Link, charging can be remotely controlled and scheduled via the app.
MyHyundai app with Blue Link
The front of the new IONIQ Electric has been updated also with a new distinctive pattern on the closed grille. All models feature an updated front bumper design with a silver-coloured molding at the bottom, and new anthracite seen on the rear bumper molding and daytime running light bezels up front, creating a more refined and dynamic look. The LED DRLs as well as the newly available LED head- and taillights have been completely redesigned to make the IONIQ stand out at night – offering not only aesthetic enhancements but also additional safety.
New IONIQ Electric front
And let’s not forget about safety.
For a comfortable and safe driving experience, all new IONIQ models are equipped with a comprehensive Hyundai SmartSense technology package. This cutting-edge driver assistance system constantly monitors the environment around the vehicle to protect drivers from potential hazards while on the road.
The new IONIQ’s leading safety package includes Front Collision Warning and Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian Detection with new Cyclist Detection ability and Driver Attention Warning. Lane Keeping Assist and High Beam Assist also come standard. Optionally available as well are Lane Following Assist which keeps the car in the middle of a lane so drivers can navigate safely even in heavy traffic during rush hour, and Intelligent Speed Limit Warning that uses the front camera and information from the navigation system to identify road speed signs and displays the speed limit and no-passing signs in real time.
Using the radar sensor to detect the distance from the car in front, Smart Cruise Control with Stop&Go and Leading Vehicle Departure Alert maintains a preset distance to automatically stop and depart again according to traffic conditions. Additional options include Blind-Spot Collision Warning and Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Warning.
New IONIQ Electric adopts 1-pedal driving capability
Taking a cue from its similarly innovative Kona Electric sibling, as a maximum use of regenerative braking technology, the new IONIQ Electric adopts 1-pedal driving capability, which allows drivers to stop the car by simply holding onto the left paddle shift lever with often no need to engage the braking pedal. Working thus via Smart Regenerative Braking, the level of energy recuperation is automatically adjusted depending on the road incline and traffic situation in front when coasting.
The new IONIQ Electric also features Eco+, which supplements the standard Eco, Comfort and Sport driving modes. By selecting the Eco+ mode, drivers reduce their energy consumption and the car’s remaining energy can be extended during unforeseeable emergency situations.
I really like the new Hyundai IONIQ Electric and I think that more range with a lower charging rate at DC fast chargers is a good trade-off, especially considering that the on-board charger was upgraded. Higher range gives us more freedom to avoid expensive and overcrowded DC fast chargers and charge at home – where charging is more convenient and a lot cheaper.
The biggest problem might be low production capacity that won’t be enough to meet demand, which is a shame considering that the other super efficient electric car, the Tesla Model 3 is a huge success.
Finally, the new Hyundai IONIQ Electric will be available to customers in September 2019.
