Hyundai to Launch Non-Conventional Electric Car 'Ioniq' in 2016
Hyundai is set to launch its own electric car called the Ioniq in South Korea early next year.
The Hyundai Ioniq is set to debut in January 2016. After that, the South Korean automaker will launch the non-conventional green vehicle in New York and Geneva at selected car shows in March, according to an Inside EVS report cited by Realty Today (RT).
The Ioniq will be the first car to have three different options for the electrical powertrain. These options are Battery Electric, Conventional Hybrid, and Plug-in Hybrid. The new green vehicle is also built on its own platform, the report details.
Get Our Latest News for FREE
"In its fully-electric (EV) form, the IONIQ is powered by a high capacity, ultra-efficient lithium ion battery," RT quotes Hyundai's statement about the Ioniq. "The plug-in hybrid (PHEV) version combines a fuel-efficient energy with battery power obtained by charging the car with electricity, boosting its range while cutting its emissions."
The South Korean carmaker also added that the hybrid (HEV) charges the on-board battery using its gasoline engine and the vehicle's motion. This system supplements the engine's power by returning enhanced efficiency, the report relays.
At present, battery technology still cannot satisfy all kinds of drivers in the market. Because of this, Hyundai has chosen to offer an Ioniq variant, which is reminiscent of gasoline propulsion. The plug-in variant, on the other hand, is best suited for drivers who want a cross between new and old technology, CNET explains.
The Hyundai Ioniq is a direct competitor of Toyota Prius. However, the latter only offers three of the options available in Ioniq, the report adds.
As of now, Hyundai has not revealed the pricing details and exact sale date of the Ioniq, but there are speculations that the vehicle will be available for purchase in late 2017. More information about the upcoming electric car is expected to emerge in next year.
