Innovating with alternative fuels

Hyundai Motor presents the world’s first vehicle platform that makes low- or zero-emission travel a reality at an affordable price

Consumers and manufacturers worry about gas-guzzling motors spewing out carbon emissions — but there are alternatives. After years of research, design and development, Hyundai Motor has produced the world’s first car to offer a choice of three electrified powertrains: the Hyundai Ioniq.

The car brings low- or zero-emission travel to the general public at an affordable price, inserting cutting-edge technology into road cars while maintaining comfort and convenience. Moreover, Hyundai has developed and announced Project Ioniq, a long-term research and development group based in Hyundai headquarters focused on improving the freedom of mobility.

“Ioniq is an important step forward for our brand in Europe,” said Jochen Sengpiehl, vice-president of marketing at Hyundai Motor Europe, as he heralded the arrival of the new range of cars. “It brings a unique new approach to e-mobility, with no compromise on great design, driving pleasure and new connectivity features. And we’re making it accessible to more customers.”

The new Ioniq range comprises three separate vehicles: hybrid, plug-in and electric models, each offering different attributes for consumers and commuters. Its sporty hatchback-style shape echoes those of more traditionally-powered cars, while the vehicle’s engineering ensures safety and reliability.

The plug-in model’s 8.9kWh lithium-ion polymer battery ensures a range of 50kms of pure electric driving when fully charged, while bringing emissions down to a fraction of most non-electric vehicles. As well as a spacious interior that can accommodate large pieces of luggage alongside passengers, a range of safety features — including smart cruise control, lane changing assistance and autonomous emergency braking.

For Hyundai, the Ioniq is just the first step towards innovating with alternative fuel sources: “We will continue to make technological strides in various areas to bring freedom and convenience in mobility for our customers with ever-improved mobility,” says Woong-chul Yang, vice-chairman and head of the Hyundai R&D Centre. Watch this space.

Ioniq offers low- or zero-emission travel at an affordable price