All-new Hyundai IONIQ coming in early 2017

Korean leading car-maker Hyundai has always been on the forefront of technology and a green activist all at the same time. And what can be a better way to showcase its state of the art and, at the same time, reduce some carbon footprints than the premiere of the Hyundai IONIQ, the ultimate green solution for motorists who wanted to do their fair bit for the environment and drive alternative-fuel vehicles. Available in electric (EV), plug-in hybrid (PHEV) and hybrid powertrain (HEV), Hyundai has plans for the Hyundai IONIQ Hybrid, the first variant, to reach the Singapore market in the early part of next year. When the Hyundai IONIQ was first unveiled at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show that took place from 1 March 2016 to 13 March 2016, Vice-Chairman of Hyundai Motor R&D Center Mr Moon-Sik Kwon said: “The launching event announced the start of new future mobility and our will for technological innovation to the world. Hyundai Motor will spearhead efforts to become the global number two in the green car market by introducing over 22 models in the eco-friendly car line-up by 2020.”  He added: “IONIQ has been developed incorporating all of our technological capacities. The hybrid, pursuing the highest efficiency in its class, is economically efficient and stays true to the fundamentals of a car by delivering the fun to drive through a modern design and dynamic driving performance.” True to his words, the Hyundai IONIQ combines performance, fuel efficiency and style so perfectly that it has broken the barriers which no other hybrid car has ever touched. Talking about performance, the marriage between the newly-developed 1.6 GDI four-cylinder Kappa engine and the 32 kW electric motor produced a staggering output of 147 Nw at 4000 rpm, which is considered powerful for a hybrid make. With a six-speed dual-clutch transmission system, the Hyundai IONIQ promises a smooth drive for every ride. Fuel efficiency is the main draw in any hybrid car. The Hyundai IONIQ is no exception. But what sets it apart from any other hybrid model is its strategic use of the Lithium-Ion polymer battery pack. Unlike conventional nickel-metal-hydride batteries, the Lithium-Ion polymer battery exhibits lower memory sensitivity and offers excellent charge/discharge efficiency. Passenger space is never compromised as the battery is thoughtfully housed beneath the rear seat. Adding to the fuel economy factor is the Hyundai IONIQ's reduced weight. About 12.4 kg has been shaved off from the Hyundai IONIQ simply by using aluminium in the hood and tailgate. Even its cargo-screen area is made up of light-weight components.     Next, on its aesthetic appeal, the Hyundai IONIQ breaks off from the conventional hybrid-concept boxy look. Based on design elements inspired by its non-hybrid contemporaries like the new Hyundai Elantra, the Hyundai IONIQ incorporates a sleeker and more-aerodynamically body styling. At the front of the car, the headlights flank Hyundai Motor's signature hexagonal grille. For the Hyundai IONIQ Hybrid, it comes with specially-designed 17-inch wheels. The Hyundai IONIQ will premiere at the Singapore Motor Show on 12 January 2017.