Hyundai is bringing its first dedicated EV for China overseas, aimed directly at Tesla and BYD. The new midsize electric SUV is about the same size and price as a Tesla Model Y, but there’s a catch.
Hyundai brings China-made Elexio EV overseas
The Elexio is Hyundai’s first dedicated electric vehicle, custom-tailored for Chinese buyers. It’s built in China through its joint venture with BAIC Motor, Beijing-Hyundai.
Like what Kia does with the EV5, Hyundai is exporting the electric SUV overseas as it looks to keep pace with Tesla, BYD, and other leading EV brands.
Hyundai launched the Elexio in Australia, a battleground market where Chinese brands, like BYD, are quickly gaining market share.
The Elexio is currently available in one “Elite” trim, starting at AUD $59,990, driveaway. However, Hyundai said the prices are an “introductory” driveaway offer, and on-road costs will increase between $6,034 and $9,221 after April 1.
To make up for it, Hyundai is launching a more affordable standard Elexio trim in the second quarter, priced from $58,990, plus on-road costs. At that, Hyundai’s midsize electric SUV is $90 more than a Tesla Model Y in Australia.
Both trims are based on a 400V version of Hyundai’s E-GMP platform with a single front-mounted 160 kW electric motor.
Powered by an 88.1 kWh iron phosphate (LFP) battery, the Elexio delivers a WLTP range of up to 562 km (349 miles). The Elite trim has a WLTP range of 546 km (339 miles).
In comparison, the base Tesla Model Y Premium Rear-Wheel Drive model, starting at $58,900, plus on-road costs, has a WTLP range of up to 466 km.
Using 150 kW DC fast charging, Hyundai’s midsize electric SUV can recharge from 10% to 80% in as little as 38 minutes.
The interior features a new style from the Hyundai vehicles we’re accustomed to, since it’s made in China. A massive 27″ display stretches across the dash with a smaller instrument cluster in front of the driver.
Upgrading to the Elite trim adds a heated steering wheel, heated and ventilated front seats, wireless phone chargers, and a powered tailgate.
Last month, the BYD Sealion 7 was the top-selling EV in Australia. Tesla’s Model Y ranked sixth, followed by the Kia EV5 in seventh.
Can the Elexio compete in a sea of midsize electric SUVs? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
Source: The Driven, Hyundai Australia
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