Hyundai is poised to unveil what will likely be its most crucial electric vehicle (EV) yet in the Chinese market. The Elexio, dubbed the Chinese language model of Hyundai’s stylish IONIQ 5 electric SUV, is poised to take centre stage in the company’s revitalization strategy for the Chinese market. Ahead of its official launch later this year, we’re uncovering some key details.
Hyundai’s latest offering, the Elexio, a fully electric sport utility vehicle, is set to debut in China.
Following the launch of Hyundai’s Elexio in Shanghai last month, the company dubbed China a “must-win market.” Like many global automakers, Hyundai is facing significant challenges in keeping pace with affordable Chinese electric vehicles.
Hyundai marked a pivotal moment in its transition to electrification with the launch of its innovative electric SUV, setting a fresh benchmark for the industry.
The Elix is a collaborative effort between Hyundai and its partner, Beijing Automotive Industry Corporation (BAIC), through their joint venture, Beijing Hyundai. Although referred to as the Chinese version of Hyundai’s IONIQ 5, this electric SUV is uniquely designed for local consumers, boasting advanced technology and customization features tailored specifically to their needs.
Built upon the same E-GMP platform that supports its IONIQ lineup, Hyundai asserts that the Elexio boasts an impressive CLTC-rated driving range of approximately 435 miles (700 km). With its impressive 800V architecture, it’s capable of rapidly recharging from 30% to 80% in just 27 minutes.
Following the procurement of a sales licence, the Ministry of Business and Information Technology published fresh data, offering insight into Hyundai’s latest electric vehicle.
The Elexio measures approximately 4,615 millimeters in length, 1,875 millimeters in width, and 1,673 millimeters in height, slightly smaller than the Tesla Model Y.
The new model will offer a range of options, including both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) powertrain configurations. Rated at up to 160 kW (214 horsepower) in its single-motor configuration, the model’s dual-motor counterpart boasts a combined maximum output of 233 kW (312 horsepower).
Hyundai’s upcoming electric SUV will employ a lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) battery pack supplied by BYD’s FinDream subsidiary, but the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) has declined to disclose specific details regarding its capacity or range.
According to reports, Hyundai plans to introduce the Elexio in China’s third quarter market, with base prices starting around 140,000 yuan, equivalent to approximately $19,500.
On June 13, Hyundai’s Elexio earned the distinction of becoming its first automobile to secure the “CCTA Charging Compatibility Verification Certificates” in China. The electric SUV successfully charged to capacity at more than 500 alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) stations, achieving a remarkable 100% completion rate across the test sites.
