Hyundai announces shock new move as it launches Ioniq brand

Hyundai has just revealed its latest new car offensive, with grand plans that are sure to have a massive impact on your next new car.

Hyundai is launching its own dedicated electric car brand called Ioniq.

The move is part of the brand’s bold plan to build three new all-electric models by 2025.

Hyundai has launched the stand-alone Ioniq electric car brand, which will have three models by 2025.

Initially the stand-alone Ioniq brand may cause some confusion because Hyundai already sells a car called the Ioniq in Australia.

The current Ioniq, sold as a hybrid, plug-in hybrid and electric car, will remain badged as a Hyundai and won’t be part of the new electric-only brand.

Hyundai is already an EV leader in Australia, as it also sells the electric Kona SUV.

The Ioniq 5 will be based on the Hyundai 45 concept.

The first vehicle to be launched under the new brand name will be the Ioniq 5 SUV next year.

The Ioniq 5 is based on the EV 45 concept shown at last year’s Frankfurt motor show. Designed to evoke memories of a Hyundai show car from 45 years ago, the new concept has an underfloor battery pack and flat-floored cabin.

This will be followed by the Ioniq 6 sedan in 2022, based on this year’s EV Prophecy concept.

The Ioniq 6 will be based on the Hyundai Prophecy concept.

The classy, curvy Prophecy concept is all smooth lines. It has a similar short front end to other EVs such as the Tesla Model 3 and the Porsche Taycan, which take advantage of the space saved from the absence of a fossil-fuel powered engine and associated parts.

The final piece of the puzzle is the Ioniq 7 large SUV, which is planned to arrive in 2024.

All three vehicles will be built on a modular platform that will be designed to maximise interior space, fast charging capabilities and a long range.

The 2020 model Hyundai Ioniq is one of the best mainstream electric vehicles currently available.

Hyundai believes the Ioniq brand will help it achieve its ambitious plan to sell one million battery-powered vehicles by 2025 — enough for a 10 per cent share of the world’s demand.

It also aims to become the third-largest maker of eco-friendly vehicles by 2025.

Originally published as Hyundai announces shock new move as it launches Ioniq brand