South Korean automaker Hyundai continues to expand its electric vehicle portfolio with the recent launch of a completely new all-electric SUV named "Elexio." This model is the first electric vehicle developed by Beijing Hyundai, a joint venture between Hyundai and China's BAIC Motor, specifically tailored for the Chinese market.
A New Design That Breaks Away from the Ioniq Lineup
The Elexio features a design that is distinctly different from Hyundai’s well-known Ioniq electric series. Hyundai has chosen to move away from the "Ioniq" branding and adopt a new name that reflects innovation and uniqueness aimed at Chinese consumers. The vehicle was unveiled for the first time at a special event held in Shanghai, with promises to reveal full technical details at a later date.
The Elexio appears to have more compact dimensions compared to the Hyundai Ioniq 9 available in other markets such as North America, making it more suitable for urban environments in China.
Futuristic and Sporty Design Language
The Elexio adopts a fresh design language that sets it apart from other Hyundai electric vehicles. The front end features a grille-less look with sporty air intakes integrated into the front bumper, topped by a full-width LED light bar positioned below the horizontally oriented headlights.
From the side, the SUV stands out with sculpted front fenders and dark-finished D-pillars visually connected to a rear spoiler, giving it a sporty and elegant profile. At the rear, full-width high-mounted LED taillights, bold lettering, and graphic design elements on the bumper emphasize the vehicle’s modern and dynamic character.
Smart and Minimalist Interior
Hyundai has yet to release detailed images of the interior but promises an intelligent interface free of traditional mechanical buttons, complemented by an advanced digital instrument cluster. The infotainment system will be powered by the Qualcomm SA8295 chip, ensuring the latest connectivity features and smartphone integration.
The interior design focuses on simplicity and practicality, offering multiple storage compartments to enhance comfort and organization for occupants.
Advanced Safety and Driver Assistance Technologies
The Elexio will come equipped with a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), providing Level 2+ semi-autonomous driving capabilities. These features aim to improve driver safety and comfort under various driving conditions.
E-GMP Platform and Performance
Built on Hyundai’s Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), which underpins many of Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis’s latest electric models, the Elexio supports configurations with either a single electric motor or dual motors. While specific powertrain details have not been disclosed, the platform is known for its flexibility and high performance.
Impressive Driving Range and Fast Charging
The Elexio boasts a driving range exceeding 700 kilometers (435 miles) on a single charge according to China’s CLTC testing standard, placing it among the longest-range electric SUVs in the market. Its battery supports fast charging, capable of charging from 30% to 80% in just 27 minutes, providing significant convenience for users.
The battery pack is housed within a reinforced structure that meets stringent crash safety standards, enhancing the vehicle’s overall reliability.
Production and Market Plans
The Elexio will be fully manufactured in China by Beijing Hyundai, with sales expected to commence in the Chinese market in the coming months. Hyundai has not yet confirmed whether the model will be introduced in markets outside China.
Earlier this year, Hyundai announced a $1.1 billion investment in its partnership with BAIC aimed at developing electric products tailored for the Chinese market and boosting exports. Facing stiff competition and declining sales in China, Hyundai hopes models like the Elexio will help regain its foothold in the world’s largest automotive market.
