Hyundai Debuts IONIQ Range in Amsterdam

Hyundai has officially launched its pathbreaking range of IONIQ range alternative-fuel cars at the retail level, with members of the media being given a chance to test drive the three different models at their global debut in Amsterdam.

Through IONIQ range, Hyundai is venturing for the first time into the genre of alternative-fuel drivetrains, and it represents Hyundai’s flexible approach in making its products more compatible and innovative when it comes to zero-emissions technology. Instead of just one alternative power source, buyers of the IONIQ can choose from three different technologies all of which employ a common vehicle architecture: the IONIQ Hybrid, IONIQ Plug-in, and IONIQ Electric. Each model not only offers the benefit of low emissions, but also offer motorists a comfortable, sporty and fun ride.

Demand for the IONIQ range is expected to exceed supply and Hyundai hopes to make the range available in the GCC region by the end of the year, beginning with the Hybrid and Electric versions.

Speaking about the launch of the IONIQ, Mike Song, Hyundai’s Head of Operations for Africa and the Middle East said that there is growing demand for cars that have a minimal impact on the environment. While many people in the automotive industry know that electric vehicles are the best choice with regard to this aspect, different customers and markets have different needs.

He went on to add that some buyers are worried about range issues, especially if they need to drive for long distances in remote areas, where it might not be easy to find a charging station. This is why IONIQ is trying to take electric power mainstream by offering three options that offer a practical stepping stone towards adoption of more advanced technology in the near future.

In the GCC, Hyundai expects the Hybrid models to account for the bulk of sales when the car arrives in the GCC. The fully hybrid version comes with a 1.6 liter direct injection petrol engine that is paired with a 32 kW electric motor. Working in tandem, the two units offer a combined 103.6 kW of power and 265 Nm of torque, with the model reaching a top speed of 185 km/h. The IONIQ Electric offers less power at 88 kW, but has more torque at 295 Nm, and can go as far as 250 km on a full charge.

Both cars are equipped with the most advanced driver assistance systems and safety technologies as well as the last features for infotainment, connectivity and comfort. These include a highly rigid structure, seven airbags, Smart Cruise Control, Lane Keep Assist System, Autonomous Emergency Braking, Blind Spot Detection, Rear Cross Traffic Alert to provide the highest levels of safety and minimize the risk of accidents.

“Hyundai is showing the way forward across a full range of technologies, and that has been built into the IONIQ’s development at every level,” said Mike Song. “As well as industry-leading alternative drivetrains, the driver assistance technology includes building blocks from our work to create autonomous, driverless cars, reducing the risk of human error. The IONIQ is not just a cleaner car, it is also a safer one.”

The IONIQ may be Hyundai’s first purpose-built alternative-fuel car, but the Korean automotive manufacturer has made great strides in exploring alternatives to fossil fuels. The Hybrid version of the Sonata has been available at the retail level in a few select markets from 2011, while the Tucson Fuel Cell is the first mass-production hydrogen fuel cell vehicle in the world.