The all-in-one Hyundai Hybrid

Hyundai showcased the electric version of the Ioniq, its futuristic electric car available as a hybrid, plug-in hybrid as well as a full electric vehicle. The Ioniq is an Elantra-sized car, in length sitting between the Verna and the Elantra, is slightly broader than the Elantra but shares the same wheelbase. It is made on a platform specially developed for electric propulsion, and can go up to 260km on a single charge. It can also be 80 per cent charged in under half an hour. This makes the Ioniq a practical and an everyday driver.

The interiors are well finished, similar to other Hyundais and the build quality of the car is immaculate. The instrument cluster is basically identifiable as a Hyundai but has a lot of displays relating to its electric propulsion. The car also offers a sporty drive experience and with energy recuperation set to the maximum, it can also be driven with a single pedal.

The Ioniq though is already on sale in most markets in Europe, North America and some markets in Asia too. If Hyundai finds Ioniq suitable for India, we may see a CKD version of the vehicle that will be assembled in India. This will keep the cost under check in this price-sensitive market.

Hyundai India CEO, YK Koo has also revealed that they will launch the first electric car in India next year which is 2019. It is expected that they will launch the Kona SUV first as SUVs are preferred segment of vehicles in India and are much more popular than the sedans.