It’s not the IONIQ 4, but Hyundai promises it will be a game changer. After unveiling its new electric SUV, ELEXIO, Hyundai said it’s about to “write a new chapter” in the world’s largest EV market. With a sleek design and up to 435 miles (700 km) driving range, this could be Hyundai’s next big hit.
Hyundai unveils new ELEXIO electric SUV
After Beijing-Hyundai released the first “spy” photos in March, speculation arose that the new electric SUV could be the IONIQ 4.
At first, it almost looked like a smaller, sportier IONIQ 9, but as more images emerged, it became clear that this model is specifically designed for the Chinese market.
The electric SUV features a full-length light bar across the front and a closed-off grille. It’s also much less boxy than the IONIQ 9 and has an aerodynamic profile.
On April 21, Beijing Hyundai revealed its “In China, for China, to the World” strategy in Shanghai, where the ELEXIO made its global debut during a media-exclusive event. Hyundai said the electric SUV’s debut “opened a new starting point for the transformation from traditional fuel vehicle giant to electrification.”
Now, Hyundai is officially showing it off to the world. The ELEXIO SUV made its global debut on Wednesday as Hyundai’s “first pure electric platform SUV” in China. Unlike its IONIQ models, it features local technology to attract Chinese buyers.
During the event, Hyundai called China a “must-fight place” for global automakers and “the core of Hyundai Motor’s global strategy.”
The company plans to build a full lineup of pure electric, hybrid, and extended-range vehicles with advanced new sedans, SUVs, and MPVs.
Its first, ELEXIO, breaks into the high-end segment with “new quality.” Beijing Hyundai said it will continue to anchor its strategic position in the Chinese market.
Based on Hyundai’s E-GMP platform, the same one underpinning the IONIQ 5, the ELEXIO SUV has a CLTC driving range of up to 435 miles (700 km). With an 800V architecture, the electric SUV can charge from 30% to 80%. More details, including prices and final specs, will be revealed closer to launch later this year.
Like most major automakers, Hyundai aims to keep pace with EV and tech leaders emerging from China, such as BYD.
Last year, it opened its first overseas R&D center in China as it looks to spark a comeback. Beijing Hyundai plans to boost sales in China while doubling exports as part of its 8 billion yuan ($1.1 billion) investment.
Will the new ELEXIO SUV help Hyundai compete with BYD and others in China? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
Source: TheKoreanCarBlog, Beijing Hyundai
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