More stories

  • in

    Hyundai Ioniq 7 Spotted Testing – Kia EV9 Counterpart, Ditches Suicide Doors

    Hyundai Ioniq 7 spotted testingKia EV9’s counterpart is Hyundai Ioniq 7 and has been spied testing for the first time – It is Hyundai SEVEN Concepts’ production versionKia and Hyundai are currently on the verge of carving out quite a chunk in global EV segment. Combined, the South Korean sister brands have developed E-GMP platform that the recently spotted Hyundai Ioniq 7 test mules will be based on. Hyundai Ioniq 7 spotted, is likely to sport similar powertrain as recently launched Kia EV9 flagship.Hyundai Ioniq 7 Spotted TestingRecent test mules of Hyundai Ioniq 7 were captured testing in Germany. Ioniq 7 is Hyundai’s counterpart of Kia EV9 flagship electric SUV and is the production version of Hyundai SEVEN electric SUV concept showcased a couple of years ago.Production-spec Ioniq 7 deviates a lot from what Hyundai showed with Concept. We’re not stressing about the lack of suicide doors (rear hinged doors) for 2nd row. Sure, that is a noticeable miss from Hyundai SEVEN concept. But we’re slightly surprised with the overall design that Hyundai is going for.As seen with SEVEN concept, Hyundai was promising a boxy SUV with a lot of presence. With production-spec Ioniq 7, Hyundai is giving out MPV vibes that seem to be in line with Hyundai Ioniq 6 sedan (saloon). Reminds us of Hyundai’s MPVs like Stargazer and Staria. Bonnet is short and A-pillar is quite raked. There’s a sense of swooping effect to this design.Hyundai Ioniq 7 fasciaNot just MPV vibes, overall design is swoopy and curvaceous, something that SEVEN concept didn’t have. Even Kia EV9 has a butch SUV stance and proportions. The test mule spotted in Germany had two different sets of alloy wheels on testing. Both these wheels are likely to be on offer with Ioniq 7, depending on different variants.Front fascia has vertically-stacked headlights that will be studded with pixel-shaped LEDs. These Pixel LEDs will comprise its LED DRL too along with rear LED signature. Side body claddings are chunky and remind us of recently launched Hyundai Kona. Rear was fully camouflaged and not a lot can be deduced.Same powertrain as Kia EV9?On the inside, Hyundai Ioniq 7 is less likely to sport the same flamboyant interiors as SEVEN concept. There is a much greater probability of Ioniq 7 packing similar attributes from both Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6. Dual 12.3-inch screens on dashboard along with a few buttons here and there, are probable.Hyundai Ioniq 7 profileHyundai logo will be replaced with the four-dots that this company is going for with past vehicles. Level-three autonomous driving aids, recycled materials on the inside, third-row seating, Hyundai’s latest operating system that powers Kona EV are some of the key highlights. Ioniq 7 might be the last E-GMP equipped global electric vehicle with announcements of next-gen eM and eS platforms.Same set of powertrains as Kia EV9 is highly likely with Hyundai Ioniq 7 spotted testing in Germany. Up to 100 kWh battery, dual motor layout with total system output of 380 bhp from Kia EV9 is logical. Claimed range on EV9 is 350 miles (563 km), while the aerodynamic design of Ioniq 7 can eke out more range. India launch is iffy and company hasn’t officially confirmed it for the Asian subcontinent.Images – Autoexpress More

  • in

    Hyundai Exter Electric Spied For The First Time – Launch In 2024 ?

    Hyundai Exter Electric SpiedHyundai Exter electric will primarily rival upcoming Tata Punch EV, while also taking on Citroen eC3 and MG Comet EVAfter Tata Punch’s dominance in micro-SUV segment, Hyundai has created a strong challenger in the form of Exter. It was launched in July 2023, at a starting price of Rs 5.99 lakh. This battle will soon be played in the EV space as well.While Punch electric test mules have been spotted earlier, this is the first time Exter electric has been spied on road tests. The sense of urgency is clearly evident, as Hyundai hasn’t wasted any time in starting the trials for Exter EV. Launch is likely to take place next year.Hyundai Exter EV range, specsExter EV will be Hyundai’s first entry-level electric car in India. As of now, the company only offers premium range EVs in India such as Ioniq 5 and Kona Electric. In international markets, Hyundai offers a range of electric, hybrid and plug-in hybrid cars. Hyundai is currently working on Casper EV, which could have similarities with Exter EV.Exter has larger dimensions in comparison to Casper EV. It could get a higher capacity battery pack. For reference, Casper EV is expected to be equipped with a 40-kWh battery pack. Exter EV is likely to get a battery pack of around 25-30 kWh. Range is likely to be around 300-350 km.Hyundai Exter Electric SpiedFor example, Citroen eC3 offers range of 320 km, whereas MG Comet EV can travel 230 km on a full charge. Tiago EV has two variants, one with 250 km range and the other with 315 km range. Upcoming Punch EV is likely to have a similar range. An intense battle is expected between Hyundai Exter EV and Punch EV, as both will try to outdo each other in terms of range and performance.Exter EV styling, featuresExter EV will be largely the same as its ICE sibling in terms of its styling. There could be some changes at the front, along with exclusive EV badging. As evident in the spy shots, Exter EV can be seen with new wheels. Much of the features on the inside will be same as ICE Exter.The SUV is equipped with 1st in segment features such as voice enabled smart electric sunroof, dashcam with dual camera, paddle shifters, rear AC vents, footwell lighting, wireless phone charger, 12 language support and Alexa voice commands. Safety kit also includes 1st in segment features such as 6-airbags standard, tyre pressure monitoring system, hill start assist control, rear view camera with dynamic guidelines, electronic stability control and vehicle stability management.Pricing will play a key role in deciding who takes the lead in micro-SUV electric segment. ICE models of Exter and Punch are closely priced. But in CNG, Punch has taken a lead with starting price of Rs 7,09,900 lakh. In comparison, Exter CNG starts at Rs 8,23,990. Hyundai is likely to follow an aggressive pricing strategy for upcoming Exter electric. More

  • in

    Accelerating Change: Hyundai Motor India’s 10-Year Investment Plan for Electric Vehicles

    Hyundai Ioniq 5 first delivery of IndiaHyundai Motor India’s Long-term Investment in Tamil Nadu – EV Ecosystem, Battery Plant, Production IncreaseHyundai Motor India (HMI) has announced a significant commitment towards a long-term investment in Tamil Nadu. This is aimed at developing a robust electric vehicle (EV) ecosystem. With a vision to contribute to sustainable mobility and embrace the global shift towards electric vehicles, HMI has earmarked a staggering Rs 20,000 Crore investment over the next 10 years, from 2023 to 2032. This strategic move showcases HMI’s commitment to India’s transition to a cleaner and greener future.The automotive industry is undergoing a transformative phase, with electric vehicles emerging as a key driver of the future. Recognizing the immense potential and favourable conditions in Tamil Nadu, Hyundai Motor India continues to accelerate the transition towards carbon-neutral manufacturing and EVs in the state. This investment not only demonstrates Hyundai’s commitment to the Indian market but also positions Tamil Nadu as the preferred manufacturing and EV hub in the country.Hyundai Motor India and Tamil Nadu – Long term Partnership, Investment PlansHyundai Motor India’s investment plans are comprehensive and far-reaching. The company aims to leverage this substantial capital infusion to increase production volumes and introduce a wide range of new electric and internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles. By doing so, HMI seeks to cater to the growing demand for clean and sustainable mobility solutions in India.The continued partnership between Hyundai Motor India and the state is formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Guidance Tamil Nadu, a nodal agency for industrial development in the state. This collaboration solidifies the commitment of both parties to drive the growth of the EV ecosystem and foster technological advancements in the automotive sector.Battery Pack assembly plant, Charging InfrastructureHyundai Motor India’s investment plans in Tamil Nadu encompass a wide range of initiatives aimed at modernizing the vehicle platform and infrastructure. The company envisions implementing its investment in a phased manner over the next 10 years, ensuring sustainable and impactful growth. A primary focus of the investment is the establishment of a state-of-the-art battery pack assembly unit. This facility will have an annual capacity to assemble 1,78,000 units of batteries.Recognizing the critical need for a robust charging infrastructure to support the widespread adoption of electric vehicles, Hyundai Motor India plans to set up 100 charging stations across Tamil Nadu over the next 5 years. The count for Dual Ultra-Fast Charging Stations (DC 150 KW + DC 60 KW) is pegged at 5 units. 10 Single Fast Charging Stations (DC 150 KW) will be set up. The majority of Single Fast Charging Stations (DC 60 KW) amounts to 85 units. This extensive network of charging stations will enable EV owners to conveniently charge their vehicles and alleviate range anxiety.Hyundai Production Volume Expansion, Future Sustainable TechnologiesTo meet the growing demand for electric and internal combustion engine vehicles, Hyundai Motor India aims to increase its total production volumes to 8,50,000 units per year. This expansion will be realized through the introduction of new Electric & ICE vehicles from the existing Sriperumbudurn plant in Tamil Nadu. By leveraging their expertise and advanced manufacturing capabilities, Hyundai is poised to play a significant role in continuing to shape the future of mobility in India.In addition to their immediate investment plans, Hyundai Motor India is committed to exploring and adopting future sustainable technologies. With rapid advancements taking place in the automotive industry, Hyundai recognizes the importance of staying at the forefront of innovation. By actively investing in research and development, Hyundai aims to introduce cutting-edge technologies that not only enhance the performance and efficiency of their vehicles but also contribute to a greener and more sustainable future. More

  • in

    Hyundai Creta Electric Spied While Charging Battery Pack

    Hyundai Creta Electric spied at a charging station in HaryanaThe same electric powertrain on Kona EV is likely to feature on the Hyundai Electric Creta – 327V architecture, 39.2 kWh battery, 134 bhp and 395 NmConverting ICE vehicles to EV has worked wonders in India. It is cost-effective and negates design, development and manufacturing of new vehicles. Tata follows the same strategy for its entire EV lineup. Mahindra employs a similar strategy with its XUV400, and soon to be launched XUV800.It seems like Hyundai is getting ready to offer us a new EV based on a similar strategy. Spy shots of a Creta EV on test have emerged on the internet. Considering that Creta is the best-selling Hyundai car on offer in India, it makes logical sense for them to launch an EV version of Creta. When launched, Hyundai is likely to price it from around Rs 20 lakh (ex-sh).Hyundai Electric Creta Test MuleLatest test mule of the Hyundai Creta EV was spotted in Karnal, Haryana. Hat tip to automotive enthusiast Manpreet for the exclusive spy shots. In these images, we can see a Hyundai Creta EV test mule hooked up to an EV charging station.For starters, there is no camouflage. Also, Hyundai is likely to offer different front and rear bumpers to establish design differences from its ICE counterpart. Creta EV test mule donned outgoing ICE-car bumpers as of now, but the production-spec version will be highly inspired by the recently spied Creta facelift test mule.Hyundai Creta Electric spied at a charging station in HaryanaAs this is a make-shift test model, there is no proper charging port. Hence, the engineers connected the charging cable by opening the bonnet. The production model will come equipped with a charging port, likely to be in the front.Powertrains shared with outgoing Kona EV?Looking at the front charging port configuration, we can’t help but wonder whether Hyundai electric Creta shares its powertrain with Kona EV on offer in India. Hyundai’s E-GMP platform underpinning the Ioniq 5, Ioniq 6 and Kia EV6 gets a charging port around the rear-right fender.If Kona EV’s powertrain is likely, we’re looking at a 327V architecture, 39.2 kWh battery coupled with a 134 bhp and 395 Nm electric motor. Hyundai claims 452 km of range on a single charge with Kona EV. Hyundai Creta Electric could have very similar power output and range specs.Hyundai Creta EV battery pack can be seen protruding in the spy shotOn the inside, it will be feature loaded with tech and safety. We’re talking about a panoramic sunroof, powered driver’s seat, ventilated front seats, a large infotainment screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, digital driver’s display, 6 airbags, ADAS features among others. When launched, it will rival the likes of MG ZS EV, Mahindra XUV400 and Nexon EV Max. More

  • in

    Hyundai Ioniq 5 Electric Delivery Starts – First Owner Shares His Thoughts

    Hyundai Ioniq 5 gets a sole powertrain option with a 215 bhp and 350 Nm single RWD layout promising 631 km of rangeHyundai Ioniq 5 Delivery Starts In India – First Owner
    The South Korean brand launched Ioniq 5 in India some time ago and deliveries for the same have now commenced. First ever Ioniq 5 was delivered to its owner in Bangalore, by Blue Hyundai dealership. Ioniq 5 introductory price for first 500 customers is Rs. 44.95 lakh (ex-sh).
    Pricing makes all the difference in a market like India. Hyundai Ioniq 5 is a unique offering at Rs. 44.95 lakh (ex-sh, introductory). At this price, it undercuts Kia EV6 and Volvo XC40 Recharge with comparable ethos and battery sizes. Hyundai has achieved this by offering only a single motor RWD variant and a smaller 72.6 kWh battery as opposed to a 77.4 kWh battery with up to dual motor setups on Kia EV6.
    Hyundai Ioniq 5 Electric First Delivery Of India
    The South Korean brand has launched Ioniq 5 in one fully-loaded variant. It shares most of its EV powertrain with Kia EV6. In terms of pricing, Ioniq 5 undercuts its Kia counterpart by quite some margin. It is one of the most well-received and critically acclaimed EVs in the world. It features a neo-retro design language, unlike anything else on the market. These were some of the thoughts in the mind of the first owner, Mr. Harshith M B.
    At the time of taking delivery, Mr. Harshith M B said that he had been wanting to own this car since the day it was launched in South Korea and he is now very happy that he is the first owner of Ioniq 5 in India. The delivery event at Blue Hyundai was no less than a celebration. Take a look of the same in the video below.
    [embedded content]
    Numbers for Hyundai Ioniq 5 are 217 bhp of power and 350 Nm of torque, while Kia EV6 can go till 325 bhp of power and 605 Nm of torque with dual motor AWD config. Ioniq 5 can travel 631 km (claimed) on a single charge. The 800V e-GMP architecture enables 350 kW of fast charging with claimed 10 – 80% charge in 18 minutes.
    In India, 50 kW DC chargers are plenty and those will take 10 – 80% in 57 minutes. Another key strategy for Hyundai’s competitive pricing is the way Ioniq 5 is brought into the country. Hyundai imports Ioniq 5 via CKD route (Completely Knocked Down) with lesser 15% duties. In comparison, Kia EV6 attracts up to 60% duties as it takes a CBU route (Completely Built Unit). For reference, Kia EV6 currently costs between Rs. 64.5 – 69.7 lakh (ex-sh).
    The Neo Retro Charm
    Hyundai Ioniq 5 is a stunning machine. It gets squarish LED signatures with a sleek headlight design. The sides are fairly handsome as well and at the rear, pixelated LED tail lights grab attention. Reminds me of a Delorean. On the inside, two 12.3” horizontal displays take center stage.
    Hyundai Ioniq 5 First Delivery of India
    Interiors are minimalistic and with fewer buttons. A two-spoke flat-bottom steering wheel with perfect 9 and 3 positions looks neat. Hyundai logo on the inside is replaced with four dots, adhering to recent trends in the company’s portfolio. Hyundai Ioniq 5 is a fairly large vehicle with immaculate proportions.
    It is a 4635 mm long, 1890 mm wide, 1625 mm tall vehicle and has a 3000 mm long wheelbase. It has a 531L boot space but lacks a front luggage area. Notable features are 21 level-2 ADAS features, 60+ connectivity and telematics features. Hyundai Ioniq 5 gets a three-year or unlimited km warranty as standard. More

  • in

    Small Hyundai Electric Cars: Casper EV, followed by Exter EV?

    From Casper EV Launching in 2024 to Exter EV: The Next Big Thing in Electric Cars from HyundaiHyundai Casper EV Spied – Likely to spawn into Exter Electric in India
    Hyundai has been a frontrunner in electric vehicle technology. The latest Hyundai Casper EV spyshots throw light on realistic possibilities. Hyundai Exter small car is set to launch in India later in 2023. It’s highly likely that it will also have an EV variant shortly after.
    Shifting gears to the Casper EV, it’s exciting to see that Hyundai Casper is likely to use a 40 kWh battery and a driving range of over 300 km. This is a significant improvement compared to previous compact EV models (Ray EV and Spark EV) that struggled with limited driving range, and high prices. With the petrol-powered Casper model priced below 20 million won (Rs 12.5 lakh), Casper EV is expected to be priced between the high 20 million won to mid-30 million won (Rs 18.8 lakh) range, making it a more affordable option.
    Hyundai Casper EV Spied: The Ideal Choice for Korean Consumers Seeking Sustainability
    The compact/micro EV would offer a value proposition as a highly attractive option for consumers looking for an affordable electric car. Furthermore, as per Korean subsidy parameters, it’s likely that Casper EV will be eligible for subsidies, making it an even more attractive option for potential buyers.
    Although Casper EV spyshots are veiled in camouflage, there’s enough to glean info from. Daytime running lights and light design elements are familiar to its ICE counterpart. The side camo pocket indicates that it is a space for electric charging. Similar to the Kona EV, it’s likely that the Casper EV will have a charging port on one side.
    Hyundai Casper EV charging port in the front
    Are You Ready for the Future with Electric Cars? Hyundai Exter EV Might Just Be It
    It’s unlikely that the Casper EV will be twinning in design with the current model, so it’s exciting to speculate what the grille will look like. The wheels on the car were 17 inches, which suggests that they have not yet developed EV-specific wheels. Tail lights also appeared to be the same as the current Casper model. There were no visible exhaust pipes on the bottom, as expected for an EV model.
    [embedded content]
    Why are we excited about the Casper EV? Because of Hyundai Exter, which in probability, is based on K1 platform. It’s the same as seen on Hyundai Casper sold abroad, and Nios i10 here. Hyundai Casper and Exter are small cars.
    And small cars are more likely to switch to an electric powertrain sooner due to their lower power requirements and more efficient operation. Additionally, as the automotive industry continues to shift towards electric mobility, it would make sense for Hyundai to offer an EV variant of the Exter. This would bolster competition in a new segment in India.
    Hyundai Casper EV spied
    The list of Best Electric Cars for Indian Urban Commuters is fast Expanding
    It would be a smart move for Hyundai, as the Indian market has been showing increasing interest in electric vehicles. And as the government has set its own goals for electric car adoption by 2030, the EV push has begun.
    If the Exter EV is anything like the Casper EV, we can expect it to have a similar driving range and competitive price point. A price competitive EV for Indian consumers looking for an affordable electric car. With its compact size and efficient operation, Exter EV could also be a popular choice for urban commuters looking for a practical daily mode of transportation. Much like the MG Comet EV ready to make its India debut this week. More

  • in

    2024 Hyundai Kona Electric Battery, Range Specs Revealed

    Unlike the Ioniq range of EVs based on e-GMP platform, updated Hyundai Kona is underpinned by a modified B-segment platform of its predecessor2024 Hyundai Kona Electric
    Hyundai and Kia are currently on the offensive where EVs are concerned. The duo are actively pushing ahead in EV space. With EV juggernauts like Tesla and BYD to beat, Hyundai and Kia have launched a slew of popular EVs. Ioniq 5 and Kia EV-6 are stark examples of this. Design of the new Kona EV was released late last year. Now, Hyundai has revealed official battery specs and range details of New Hyundai Kona Electric.
    Just like its predecessor, Hyundai has not made Kona EV-only. At least for now. In this sense, Kona will spawn a ICE model and a strong hybrid model alongside an EV-only model. Underpinning this project, is a modified version of Hyundai’s B-segment platform enabling mounts for engine and also hybrid components. How better is it as opposed to its predecessor? Let’s take a look.
    2024 Hyundai Kona Electric
    New Hyundai Kona Electric Specs
    New Gen Kona Electric comes with two battery pack options. The base variant gets a 48.4 kWh battery pack claiming to deliver a range of 342 kms on full charge. The top variant comes with a larger 65.4 kWh battery pack that delivers a drive range of 490 kms. Fast charging option is available. The bigger battery pack takes only 41 minutes to charge from 10-80% via fast charger.
    Both battery pack options with new Kona get a front mounted electric motor. In the smaller battery pack option, the electric motor is rated to deliver 154 hp while with the larger battery pack you get 214 hp. Torque output has been kept at 255 Nm for both variants.
    2024 Hyundai Kona Electric
    Speaking of India, we currently get a 39.2 kWh battery pack option with a claimed range of 452 km. If next gen Hyundai Kona EV is launched in India, it should boast a better range than outgoing model. Just like current Kona, the new one also comes with Vehicle-to-load capability. This means that you will be able to charge internal as well as external devices like home appliances using Kona EV.
    Design & Features
    Hyundai has come up with a radical and geometric design for new Kona. With many of Hyundai’s designs, upgrades usually don’t feel organic and cohesive in capturing the essence of its predecessor. That is not the case with new Hyundai Kona. The parametric and pixel design philosophies combine to form a handsome-looking front.
    Headlight and brake light elements are housed in separate pods, while LED light bars take the centre stage at both ends. They accentuate the width of new Kona. Speaking of, new gen Hyundai Kona is 5.5” (139.7mm) longer, 0.9” (22.86mm) wider and has a 2.3” (58.42mm) longer wheelbase over its predecessor.
    2024 Hyundai Kona Electric
    The sharp lines and creases at the sides give it an athletic appeal. At the same time, flared wheel arches and undercuts behind its fenders add substantial muscle. There are smart-looking 5-spoke design alloy wheels and near the C-pillar, shoulder-line and roof-line merge to neatly form an X-insignia.
    On the inside, Hyundai has used sustainable materials. The main attraction here are its dual 12.3” digital displays and a 12” HUD. Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, NFC-enabled smartphone and smartwatch access digital key, ambient lighting, flat reclining electric front seats, Hyundai SmartSense ADAS tech, remote parking among many, are highlight features. More

  • in

    Hyundai Creta Electric Spied For First Time – 2025 Launch Plan

    A 100 kW electric motor and a battery big-enough for a 400+ km range should make for an interesting proposition for our marketHyundai Creta Electric SpiedHyundai India has kick-started its electric vehicle onslaught by launching the Ioniq 5 and showcasing Ioniq 6 at the Auto Expo last month. But the Korean automaker is also working on a more mainstream EV for our market. It was recently reported that Hyundai is working on an electric Creta crossover (codenamed SU2i EV) and an early prototype based on the conventional variant has been spotted for the first time in public.Automotive enthusiast Nitin Tyagi was charging his EV while the Hyundai Creta EV prototype stopped by for a recharge, and he promptly clicked these photos. There were a total of two test mules of the Hyundai Creta Electric. As you can see, the test mules do not have any camouflage but there is an easily noticeable protrusion from the floor pan which appears to be a structural member supporting the battery pack.2025 Hyundai Creta Electric SpiedConverting an in-production IC-engined car into a fully electric prototype is not a walk-in-the-park but Hyundai engineers and technicians seem to have done a pretty neat job. Save for the visible floor pan extension and different body panel colours, there is nothing on the exterior to suggest it is not a regular Creta.The production version is also expected to be based on the modified version of the current IC-engine platform. This approach will allow Hyundai to optimize cost since its almost fully localized. Tata has applied the same formula to Nexon EV, and Mahindra to XUV400.Hyundai Creta Electric SpiedThis will also help the automaker produce the vehicle with minimal modifications and investments to its existing assembly lines. However, in the long term, Hyundai India will localize its fully electric E-GMP architecture for both domestic and export markets.Hyundai Creta EV SpecsNot much is known about the specifications of the upcoming Hyundai Creta EV but we expect critical sub-systems to be derived from the Kona EV. That would mean a 100 kW (136 hp) PMSM electric motor with a peak torque output of 395 Nm of torque.The battery pack is also likely to be derived from the international sibling. With a capacity of 39.2 kWh, the lithium-ion polymer unit should be good for an ARAI-certified range of over 400 km. The Creta EV could be used with some significant aero optimizations over its IC-engined sibling to improve energy efficiency.Hyundai Creta Electric SpiedNew Hyundai Creta EV is expected to be ready for its global debut at the 2025 Auto Expo before going on sale later that year. Interestingly, the debut timeline is similar to its primary competitor Maruti YY8 electric SUV (codename). Expect the pricing to  be somewhere between Rs 20 to 30 lakh.Tata, Maruti, Mahindra and other OEMs will be aiming to position their volume-oriented electric crossovers in the same segment. That should make for an intense competition which will ultimately benefit the customers. We think Hyundai will easily attain its volume target of around 25,000 units per annum with its mid-premium EV offering. More