07.01.2016 Press release

IONIQ: A Leap Forward for Hybrid Vehicles

  • Hyundai Motor reveals first photos and technical innovations underpinning IONIQ
  • Lightweight, high-strength architecture delivers a fun, responsive drive
  • Next generation drivetrain efficiencies achieve class-leading fuel economy

Press material

Hyundai Motor has unveiled the first photos of the new IONIQ – the next generation of hybrid vehicles, and the first to offer electric, plug-in hybrid and hybrid powertrains in a single body type.
IONIQ further breaks the hybrid stereotype through its entertaining driving experience, attractive design and advanced connectivity, matching the expectations and changing lifestyles of customers.
Rag Jung, Head of Project Management Division at Hyundai Motor R&D Center said, “IONIQ embodies Hyundai Motor's new thinking and bold ambitions for the future. This world-class dedicated hybrid will be the starting point of our future mobility.”

Lightweight engineering from a dedicated design

Built on a chassis created specifically to carry the world’s first choice of three efficient and ultra-low emission powertrains, the IONIQ boasts 53% Advanced High Strength Steel combined cleverly with lightweight aluminum. The new model saves 12.6kg (45%) of weight by casting non-structural bodywork from aluminum, such as the hood, tailgate and suspension components. Where crash structure or energy absorption is necessary, the structure features Advanced High Strength Steel that can withstand significant collision forces.
The new model was created with dynamic ride and handling at its core, a characteristic that sets the IONIQ apart from other hybrid vehicles. Positioning the car’s batteries low and forward achieves a low center of gravity that enables highly responsive, stable cornering. The IONIQ furthers its handling prowess with dual lower arm multi-link suspension fitted at the rear.

Inside IONIQ: the evolved hybrid system

The full IONIQ range will feature a choice of electric, plug-in hybrid and hybrid powertrains, a world first for a single model. All three models will be unveiled together at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2016, and full product information will be communicated. At the unveiling in Korea today, details were shared for the first version to come to market – the hybrid.

With the world’s highest thermal efficiency (40%), the new 1.6-liter Kappa GDi engine developed exclusively for Hyundai Motor’s hybrid engines, combines with the permanent magnetic electric motor to deliver maximum outputs of 105ps and 43.5ps – engine and motor respectively.
Within the engine, class-leading thermal efficiency of 40% is achieved, while the head and block is split for optimized cooling. Plus, the 200 bar high pressure 6-hole direct fuel injector further improves fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions.

Alongside this, the Lithium Ion Polymer Battery delivers outstanding charge and discharge performance, optimizing output from the high voltage motor and allowing for rapid regeneration. Controlling power distribution is a hybrid-exclusive Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT), which presents a dynamic driving experience unique to IONIQ. Class-leading power transmission efficiency of 95.7% delivers a prompt response, acceleration performance and smooth gear changes to delight drivers with handling alongside the hybrid’s efficiency.
The introduction of IONIQ is a significant milestone for the Hyundai brand in Europe, and another leap forward in our sustainability initiatives, alongside our fuel cell leadership. IONIQ provides a modern mobility experience that fits with the changing lifestyles of customers in the digitalised world. Our unique family of three innovative powertrains and the connectivity package bring new benefits to European customers, further demonstrating our commitment to sustainable and convenient technologies.

Jochen Sengpiehl Vice President Marketing at Hyundai Motor Europe

The world premiere of the three-model IONIQ range will take place at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2016.

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