Hyundai unveils electric hatch

Hyundai will join the electric revolution during 2016 with the Ioniq – a large hatchback which will claim a world first by offering three different drivetrain options.

These are electric, hybrid and plug-in hybrid, the latter two using the 1.6-litre petrol engine from the existing i30 hatch.

The car will be based on a new platform which has been developed to work with such a wide variety of powertrains. The same architecture will also underpin the new Niro from sister company Kia.

Hyundai says the chassis will give the vehicle ‘responsive’ handling. Unlike the Toyota Prius, which has always had a bit of a worthy image, the Koreans want this car to put a smile on people’s faces.

‘The Ioniq combines class-leading fuel efficiency with a fun, responsive drive and attractive design,’ they say. ‘A unique mix not yet achieved by a hybrid vehicle.’

Hyundai’s R&D boss Woong-Chul Yang describes the Ioniq as ‘the fruit of our efforts to become the leader in the global green car market.’ And senior UK sources have already made clear that the vehicle is the start of a process which will see alternative fuels extend through its whole model range.

For now, the Ioniq can be expected to be positioned as a premium model, with a quality interior and a price to match. More information will be forthcoming following its European debut at the 2016 Geneva show.