On May 24, Hyundai unveiled its IONIQ 5 crossover electric vehicle with fast charging.

At the virtual unveiling, José Muñoz, CEO of Hyundai Motor North America, began by emphasizing Hyundai’s commitment to green mobility.

The automaker wants to electrify its entire catalogue by 2040 and expects to occupy nearly 10% of the global electric market. Hyundai also intends to introduce 23 electric models by 2025.

The new IONIQ 5 has a range of 300 miles (483 kilometres) on a single charge. The innovative technology developed by the Korean automaker promises an 80% fast charge in 18 minutes.

The new model is based on the exclusive modular platform (E-GMP) that optimizes both performance and interior space.

“Once behind the wheel, consumers will be struck by the range, power, comfort, interior space and advanced technologies offered by this vehicle,” Muñoz said.

The design has been completely revised and takes advantage of the dedicated platform to offer more freedom in the interior and exterior design. The body is inspired by the “45” prototype presented at the 2019 Frankfurt Motor Show.

The wheelbase reaches 118 inches, the lighting is LED and the V-shaped front bumper is designed to catch the eye. Handles are cast into the body to make a smooth, aerodynamic surface.

The “Parametric” design features a body where the front and rear end merge at the doors. The wheels are designed to extend this effect.

Consumers will be able to choose from six exterior colours, five of which are exclusive to the IONIQ 5, as well as a choice of a rear electric motor or a combination of two motors offering all-wheel drive.

With the single-motor option, the car offers a range of 300 miles while it is 244 miles in AWD. Both configurations offer a towing capacity of 1,500 pounds.

Fast charging

The IONIQ 5 can be recharged at either 400 or 800-volt charging stations. With a 350 Kw charge, the vehicle can go from 10 to 80% charge in 18 minutes. The crossover can also be used as a charging station for electric bikes and scooters.

It can also be used as a generator in case of a power outage.

More space

The IONIQ 5 offers large interior space for a compact utility vehicle. The new platform that supports the batteries allows for a nearly flat floor. This frees up space for passengers and cargo. The seats can be positioned in a variety of ways to provide maximum comfort.

Behind the second row of seats is 27.2 cubic feet of storage space, a space that doubles by lowering the rear seats.

One of the striking aspects of this new car is the mobile centre console, Universal Island.

The driver chooses to shift from forward to reverse by turning a rotary selector, and engaging the parking position is done with the push of a button. Still, on the console, a magnetic board allows you to stick photos or notes, like on the surface of a fridge.

The ambient lighting is discreet and gives a living room atmosphere while highlighting the speaker’s grilles.

The 30% slimmer driver’s seat is electronically adjustable and can be programmed into memory. The rear seats also recline. The whole thing benefits from a glass roof that offers uninterrupted visibility.

The IONIQ 5 also features a high-resolution display (HUD) that allows the driver to see important information without looking down. The driver can even opt for augmented reality, which presents the vehicle’s environment.

Safety

This electric vehicle features the latest in driver assistance and safety systems. Featuring Hyundai’s SmartSense system, this model offers adaptive cruise control, forward collision avoidance, blind-spot detection, lane departure warning, intelligent speed control and loss of attention warning.

A safety system will also warn passengers who want to leave the vehicle if a car is approaching. The vehicle is also equipped with several parking assistance systems and it is even possible to pull the vehicle out of a parking space remotely.

Sensors provide a 360-degree view that facilitates maneuvering, even warning the driver if an obstacle is behind him or her.

The IONIQ 5 is also the first Hyundai vehicle to offer wireless updates for navigation maps and multimedia software. Some of the voice commands can be used to control the radio, air conditioning, heated seats or even the opening of the tailgate.

After the launch of the IONIQ 5, Hyundai is preparing the introduction of the IONIQ 6, a sedan and the IONIQ 7, a full-size electric SUV.