Hyundai Is Making Concept Dreams Come True With New Ioniq Brand
Hyundai Motor Group continues to demonstrate its “go-big-or-go-home strategy.” The global automaker has achieved incredible success with its vehicle lineup under both its Hyundai and Kia brands. Now, the global carmaker is ready to take on another aspect of the auto industry.
Thanks to its Ioniq electric vehicle’s success, Hyundai will launch its first all-electric brand under the Ioniq name. The Ioniq brand is similar to what the carmaker did with its luxury sub-brand, Genesis. Here’s the latest on Hyundai’s big move.
How the Ioniq EV started it all
Hyundai made a massive splash in the EV market when it first announced its all-new Ioniq vehicle for the 2017 model year. What made the Ioniq so special was that it was initially available as a hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and an electric battery model, which were all based on the same body style.
Critics recognized the Ioniq as one of the best new models to challenge the Toyota Prius. It’s also a standout in the EV market because it’s a great option to buy used too. Hyundai says the Ioniq now represents its commitment to launching more sustainable vehicles.
“The IONIQ brand will change the paradigm of EV customer experience,” said Wonhong Cho, Executive Vice President and Global Chief Marketing Officer at Hyundai Motor Company. “With a new emphasis on connected living, we will offer electrified experiences integral to an eco-friendly lifestyle.”
Hyundai Motor Group
Three new EV’s coming real soon
In its press release, Hyundai is naming the new lineup of EVs under the Ioniq brand in numerical order. Even numbers are for sedan models, and odd numbers are for SUVs. The first official vehicle under the Ioniq brand will be the Ioniq 5 SUV, based on its 45 concept model design.
Hyundai unveiled the 45 concept at the 2019 Frankfurt International Motor Show. At the time of the show, Hyundai dubbed the concept’s minimalist design language as “Sensuous Sportiness.” We can expect the official Ioniq 5 SUV to launch in 2021 officially.
For 2022, Hyundai will launch the Ioniq 6 sedan, based on the Prophecy concept it released in March 2020. The large Ioniq 7 SUV will soon follow and should hit dealerships in 2024. Each model will feature the same sensuous design language. All models will also feature the Electric Global Modular Platform or E-GMP, which is designed to boost battery life and fast charging capabilities.
“The EV-dedicated platform will allow Hyundai to reimagine the vehicle interior as “smart living space” with highly adjustable seats, wireless connectivity and unique features such as a glove box designed as drawers,” The company said. “The platform paradigm shift will extend into the user interfaces that will be simple, intuitive and ergonomically designed to help occupants feel at ease. “
Hyundai Motor Group
Hyundai’s 2025 strategy
Hyundai’s goal is to sell 1 million EVs and become the EV market leader by 2025. With this plan, Hyundai also intends to be the third-largest producer of eco-friendly vehicles. We’re expecting more specs of the new models as we approach the Ioniq 5 release date for 2021.