Hyundai’s latest EV offering, the IONIQ 6, just made its debut at the LA Auto show, and the Korean automaker released some impressive stats to go along with its stunning design.
Based on the Prophecy EV concept, the IONIQ 6 is a slippery, coupe-like sedan featuring a “streamliner” design, as Hyundai calls it. The IONIQ 6 is similar to cars like the Mercedes EQS, but the IONIQ 6’s design is even more extreme.
The short nose, long wheelbase and “slight boat-tail structure” of the rear give it a dramatic appearance, though inside Hyundai says the cabin will still be roomy.
The IONIQ 6 “is our latest and greatest EV,” Hyundai U.S. President Randy Parker said in an interview with Yahoo Finance. “The car was built from the inside out rather than the outside in, like most car designs, and it really prioritizes user experience and maximizing space."
The IONIQ 6’s extremely aerodynamic design coupled with its 77.4 kWH battery will deliver a very impressive 340 miles on a full charge with its single motor configuration (225 hp, 258 lb-ft. of torque). The dual motor setup, with 320 hp and 446 lb-ft of torque, will net 310 miles, according to Hyundai estimates.
Though the car looks like very sporty, and even infringes on the luxury space with its clean design and performance credentials, Hyundai still sees it as car for everyone.
“[The IONIQ 6] is targeting more of the mainstream buyer,” Parker says. “This is our first passenger car, EV if you will.” Parker notes the IONIQ 5 hatchback crossover, and the incoming IONIQ 6 will round out its current EV portfolio.
Other notable features include an 800-volt system architecture and 10.9 kW on-board charger, meaning the IONIQ 6 will go from 10% to 80% battery charge in 18 minutes if using a 350-kW DC fast charger. The IONIQ 6 will also be the first Hyundai model with over-the-air (OTA) software updates, something the IONIQ 5 does not have. The OTA updates can even enhance the performance of the powertrain, steering, and braking in the future.
While the IONIQ 6 will currently be built in South Korea, and therefore exempt from new tax credits for EVs, Hyundai just broke ground on a new EV factory in Georgia. New cars are expected to be built there in 2025.
In the meantime, competitive pricing even with out tax credits (likely starting around mid-$40s like the IONIQ 5), unique design, and strong range figures will be the main draw for buyers in the space.
“IONIQ 6 is well-positioned to compete in the EV segment for the millions of shoppers who are interested in transitioning to zero emissions transportation,” said José Muñoz, Hyundai Motor North America president and CEO said in a statement. “IONIQ 6 and its interior space, battery options, charging speed and all-wheel drive capability will exceed customer expectations.”
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Pras Subramanian is a reporter for Yahoo Finance. You can follow him on Twitter and on Instagram.
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