Hyundai is hyping the new Ioniq 6 as one of the most innovative EVs to hit the streets in years. Its sleek, aerodynamic design nods to classic sedans while also looking futuristic. The South Korean automaker recently announced another benefit to the Ioniq 6: It’ll relieve range anxiety. If this upcoming EV lives up to expectations, it could rival even Tesla in range.

The Hyundai Ioniq 6 boasts impressive range

In a recent press release, Hyundai stated that the Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP) rated the range of the upcoming Hyundai Ioniq 6 at 614 km. That’s 382 miles. The Ioniq 6’s unique aerodynamic shape contributes to its impressive range. Hyundai describes its new EV as an “electrified streamliner” whose design centers around sleekness. 

382 miles is an impressive range, but it also deserves further evaluation. American drivers are used to seeing EPA ratings rather than WLTP ratings, and EPA ratings are typically a bit lower. The WLTP is the primary European range test, and according to Licaro, it was implemented after Volkswagen’s notorious 2015 emissions scandal. WLTP results are noted for their accuracy because the tests simulate real-world driving. 

Though WLTP results are considered accurate, EPA range estimates are considered even more precise. Licaro states that the EPA’s estimates are typically lower than the WLTP’s by about 11%. With this in mind, the Ioniq 6 might get a slightly lower EPA-estimated range than the 382 miles in the WLTP rating.

Tesla has a reputation for excellent range

As Hyundai attempts to produce electric vehicles with the best range, one EV manufacturer has long held the title. Tesla is the world’s most recognizable EV maker, and the company is known for innovating and improving its vehicles’ range. For instance, the Model S Long Range Plus had an EPA-estimated 402-mile range, Car and Driver reported.

One reason Tesla models can reach such impressive ranges is that its vehicles use the entire battery pack capacity. That squeezes as much mileage out of a battery in exchange for increasing the risk of early battery degradation. Most other EVs ensure the battery always holds at least some reserve charge to improve the battery’s longevity. Whether Tesla’s method or the alternative is better depends on what a driver wants out of an EV. 

The first Ioniq 6 to hit the roads will likely not match the highest-range new Tesla model, but Hyundai’s EV will still be highly competitive.

Expect the Hyundai Ioniq 6 to arrive in 2023

Range is only part of what makes the Hyundai Ioniq 6 a promising EV. Its streamlined design makes it a unique car, and it has the potential to stand out in performance too. Kelley Blue Book reports that the dual-motor all-wheel-drive Ioniq 6 will harness 320 hp, and considering the car’s aerodynamics, it’s easy to imagine the speeds it could reach. 

Hyundai has not yet announced a release date for the Ioniq 6, but it’s expected to arrive in the United States in early 2023. Kelley Blue Book estimates it will start around $40,000.