Hyundai has released a new set of detailed images of the world's only car available with electric, PHEV & Hybrid tech.
The Korean manufacturer is calling the IONIQ an advanced "alternative-fuel compact vehicle", which is pretty much hitting the nail on the head. Now that we've an even better look at its design and dimensions, it's safe to say that you won't be turning your head with envy after each passing 2016 Prius.Speaking of design, the IONIQ's coupe-like silhouette has a very specific function, which is to efficiently manage airflow. The car also comes with active and passive aerodynamic features, helping it achieve a very impressive drag coefficient of just 0.24 Cd. In other words, this is one of the most aerodynamic cars on sale, on par with the Tesla Model S and surpassing even the BMW i8 and Toyota Prius.
The IONIQ's front fascia is convincingly ordinary (good thing), while still helping it remain easily identifiable as an eco-friendly car. The 15/17" wheels will differentiate the hybrid model from its electric and plug-in hybrid siblings - just so we're clear about which versions of the car Hyundai would like you to focus on.
Moving on directly to its interior (since we've already covered its powertrains), it's important to point out that the IONIQ comes with features such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a 7" TFT information cluster, plus a whole bunch of safety tech which includes Autonomous Emergency Brake, a Lane Keeping Assist System, Lane Departure Warning System and a Blind Spot Detection system. Also, there are 7 airbags distributed throughout the car, including a knee-airbag for the driver.
Concerning the car's name, it references elements of its creation. An ion is an electrically-charged atom, which links directly to the vehicle's combination of powertrains. The second part of the name references the fact that this is a unique offering to the Hyundai range, which in turn demonstrates the brand's environmental commitment and their willingness to maximize a customer's choice. The 'Q' is there only for visual purposes.
Future IONIQ owners will be able to choose between 9 different exterior colors, which can then be paired with a choice of three interior options, which in a way reflects the fact that there are three different versions of the car.
Even though all three IONIQ siblings will be unveiled at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show in March, it's the Hybrid model that will arrive first to the European market, in the second half of this year.
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