Following its unveiling to the media in South Korea, Hyundai has confirmed details of its next generation of hybrid vehicles, dubbed IONIQ.
Rag Jung, Head of Project Management Division at Hyundai's R&D Centre said, "IONIQ embodies Hyundai Motor's new thinking and bold ambitions for the future. This world-class dedicated hybrid will be the starting point of our future mobility."
Built on a chassis created specifically to carry the world's first choice of three efficient and ultra-low emission powertrains, the IONIQ contains 53% Advanced High Strength Steel combined with lightweight aluminum. The new model saves 12.6kg (45%) of weight by casting non-structural bodywork from aluminum, such as the hood, tailgate and suspension components. Where crash structure or energy absorption is necessary, the structure features Advanced High Strength Steel that can withstand significant collision forces.
The new model was created with 'dynamic ride and handling at its core', says Hyundai, setting it apart from other hybrid vehicles. Positioning the car's batteries low and forward achieves a low centre of gravity that enables responsive, stable cornering backed up by dual lower arm multi-link suspension fitted at the rear.
The full IONIQ range will feature a choice of electric, plug-in hybrid and hybrid powertrains, a world first for a single model. At the unveiling in Korea, details were shared for the first version to come to market - the hybrid.
With 40 percent thermal efficiency, the new 1.6-litre Kappa GDi engine developed exclusively for Hyundai's hybrid engines, combines with the permanent magnetic electric motor to deliver maximum outputs of 105PS and 47PS - engine and motor respectively.
The Lithium Ion Polymer Battery optimises output from the high voltage motor to allow for rapid regeneration while power distribution is controlled by a hybrid-exclusive Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT).
Hyundai claims power transmission efficiency of 95.7 percent will deliver a prompt response, acceleration performance and smooth gear changes to delight drivers with handling alongside the hybrid's efficiency.