Hyundai launched a new sub-brand “IONIQ” for electric vehicles

KUALA LUMPUR: Five years ago, Hyundai spun-off one of its most exciting models, the Genesis Coupe, and created a luxury sub-brand, Genesis. Once again, the Korean automaker heads up for the same. This time, it is the Ioniq marque, a name that is a fusion of 'ion' and 'unique' words. It takes its name from the Hyundai Ioniq electrified range, offered in hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and pure-electric variants. 

The new Ioniq brand is dedicated to battery electric vehicles, and opening a new chapter for Hyundai in the era of electrified mobility. Under this, Hyundai will offer customers "centric EV experiences centered on connected lifestyle solutions in line with Hyundai's vision of Progress for Humanity."

To celebrate the occasion, Hyundai staged a light show by turning the busy London Eye into the brand's 'Q' logo. The automaker will be launching a range of numerically named electric vehicles under the Ioniq brand, with the odd numbers used for SUVs and the even numbers for sedans. 

The first model will be the Ioniq 5 mid size CUV based on the concept EV '45', revealed at the 2019 International Motor Show in Frankfurt. For this, designers took inspiration from the past and integrated it with cutting-edge parametric pixels. Ioniq 5 will launch in early 2021. 

Another model will be Ioniq 6 sedan based on Hyundai's latest concept EV 'Prophecy,' showcased in March. The automaker planned its official debut in 2022, which will be followed by Ioniq 7, a large SUV in early 2024. These vehicles will have a common design theme of 'Timeless Value' and will be inspired by past models, but they would be a bridge to the future.

All Ioniq models will sit on a new platform called the Electric Global Modular architecture (E-GMP), which will allow fast-charging and plentiful driving range. However, the automaker kept mum in the matter of specifications. But touts that the range will feature a "smart living space" with highly-adjustable seats, wireless connectivity, and some unique features.

The launch of the new electric sub-brand supports Hyundai' Strategy 2025' aims to sell one million battery electric vehicles and take a 10% share in the EV market by 2025.

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