Hyundai Ioniq 5
Today sees the launch of the brand-new Hyundai Ioniq 5, the production version of the well-received 2019 Frankfurt Motor Show concept car, the Hyundai 45.
Drawing heavily on the concept’s design, the production Ioniq 5 (Ioniq now becoming Hyundai’s EV sub-brand) is a mid-sized, all-electric CUV that debuts the company’s new E-GMP platform that will underpin future Ioniq models (a saloon-shaped 6 and SUV 7 are on their way). This not only allows a huge advancement in Hyundai’s BEV technology, but also allows a massive shift in interior design, focusing on space and how it’s used. A completely flat floor allows the cabin to become what Hyundai describes as a ‘Living Space’ with a moveable centre console, and reclinable front seats. There is also a power socket inside the car to power appliances such as laptops, as well as being one on the exterior that can put power into external sources even when the vehicle is turned off.
Available in two battery sizes, a Standard Range 58kWh and Long Range 72.6kWh which is capable of a range of up to 292 miles. The car is also available with two powertrains, and the option of either rear or all wheel drive. The more powerful of the two develops 302bhp and 446 lb ft of torque, allowing 0-62mph in 5.2 seconds. The slowest, a rear wheel drive, 167bhp model with the 58kWh battery still manages the benchmark sprint in 8.5 seconds.
The car also features an 800V system which will allow ultra-rapid charging, meaning up to 80% of charge can be delivered in just 18 minutes from a 220kW DC charger. Such a system has, so far, been the preserve of high-end sports EVs such as the Porsche Taycan.
Yet perhaps the most impressive part of the Ioniq 5 is the exterior design, which manages to look sleek and sophisticated whilst drawing on the original Hyundai Pony for inspiration. Just like the concept car, it features cutting-edge Parametric Pixel lights at the front and the rear, and the clamshell bonnet and precise angular surface treatment give the car a very clean language which, according to CCO Luc Donckerwolke, “reflects the silence of EVs”.
Inside, the car features full digital displays for the instrument binnacle and infotainment system, and uses sustainable materials throughout such as recycled plastic bottles, wool or leather processed from vegetable oil, polyurethane paint and even ‘paperette’ a new recycled material that feels like paper.
Prices for the full range have yet to be confirmed, but the limited-edition ‘Project 45’ model that is available to order now is £45,000 including the UK’s PICG.
