Hyundai is opening a new chapter in the era of electrified mobility: the manufacturer is marketing IONIQ as a new EV brand. Three innovative battery-electric models (BEVs) will be introduced under this new brand name over the next three years. The new IONIQ models guarantee an 'individualised electrified experience', tailored to different lifestyle needs and fully in line with Hyundai's 'Progress for Humanity' vision.
The launch of IONIQ as a new sub-brand for all-electric models is Hyundai's response to fast-growing market demand and supports Hyundai's ambition to grow into a global EV leader. To fulfil IONIQ's mission, Hyundai combines its leading manufacturing expertise in electric vehicles with offering smart mobility solutions.
'The IONIQ brand marks a major change in how Hyundai markets electric vehicles and how customers experience them,' said Wonhong Cho, Executive Vice President and Global Chief Marketing Officer at Hyundai. 'With IONIQ, we are changing the way we look at electric vehicles by going beyond conventional thinking. We offer individualised electric experiences that are integrated into environmentally conscious and connected lifestyles.'
Relaunching IONIQ
The name IONIQ is an amalgamation of 'ion' and 'unique' and was first used when 'Project IONIQ' was announced; a long-term R&D project for eco-friendly mobility that resulted in the launch of the Hyundai IONIQ in 2016 - the world's first and only car available with a choice of three electrified powertrain options: hybrid, plug-in hybrid and fully electric. Hyundai's innovative heritage first reflected in this model is now leading to the launch of IONIQ as Hyundai's new brand of dedicated, electric vehicles.
IONIQ 5, IONIQ 6 and IONIQ 7
IONIQ will be a sub-brand with its own models under its own brand name. Three new IONIQ models will be presented over the next three years. The IONIQ 5 is the first model to be launched under the new brand name later this year. It is a mid-size CUV based on the 45 Concept EV - a tribute to Hyundai's very first concept car - which impressed at the 2019 Frankfurt Motor Show. The designers of IONIQ 5 took inspiration from the past and combined it with advanced parametric pixels; a new and unique design element that will also characterise the other IONIQ models. The IONIQ 6 will follow in 2022. This will be a sports sedan based on the Hyundai Concept EV Prophecy unveiled last March. The IONIQ 7 will be a large CUV that will make its appearance in 2023.
E-GMP platform
IONIQ models will be built on the advanced Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP). They will have a range of at least 450 km, while the battery can be charged in just 20 minutes. This will make the IONIQ 5, 6 and 7 among the fastest-charging electric vehicles on the market. The E-GMP platform also allows the interior to be set up as a 'smart living room', with extensively adjustable seats and wireless connectivity whose user interfaces are designed to be so simple, intuitive and ergonomic that occupants feel completely at ease.
'Strategy 2025'
Hyundai Motor Group recently announced that it aims for 1 million BEVs sold by 2025 and a 10 per cent market share to become the market leader in electrified vehicles. According to its 'Strategy 2025' plan, Hyundai also aims to become the third largest manufacturer of eco-friendly cars by 2025, with annual sales of 560,000 BEVs on top of FCEVs. The launch of IONIQ reinforces the company's commitment to clean mobility and reflects its ongoing transformation as a provider of smart mobility solutions.
