When Hyundai Motor was developing its IONIQ model, it took a ‘safe’ approach by engineering the car to have multiple powertrain choices. At launch in 2016, it was available with either a hybrid, plug-in hybrid (PHEV) or pure electric powertrain. The move would allow the IONIQ to be sold in more different markets depending on the recharging infrastructure available.
It’s now been three years that the IONIQ has been in global markets and an updated version has been released. Apart from the usual cosmetic changes and feature enhancements, the significant change is in the all-electric powertrain’s performance.
Better electric performance
The battery pack now has 36% more energy capacity which enables the car to travel up to 273 kms before it runs out of volts. There’s a standard 7.2-kW on-board charger for Type 2 AC charging; using a 100-kW fast-charging station, the battery can reach 80% charge within 54 minutes. The IONIQ Electric’s e-motor generates 134 ps/295Nm.
The 2020 IONIQ Hybrid and IONIQ PHEV continue to use a 1.6-litre GDI 4-cylinder petrol engine delivering 104 ps/148 Nm. The IONIQ Hybrid’s permanent magnet electric motor can generated 32 kW/169 Nm, powered by a lithium-ion-polymer battery with 1.56 kWh of capacity positioned under the rear seats.
The PHEV’s electric motor generates 45 kW/169 Nm, powered by an 8.9 kWh lithium-ion-polymer battery. Total system output for the IONIQ Hybrid can be up to 139 ps with a maximum of 264 Nm of torque. The IONIQ PHEV offers a higher total system output of 156 ps and 264 Nm of torque. Drivers using the IONIQ PHEV can expect to travel at least 47 kms on just electric power alone with the fully-charged 8.9 kWh battery pack.
A Predictive Energy Management system, which manages charging and discharging of the battery in uphill and downhill situations to maximize battery usage. When a lack of battery state-of-charge is predicted driving uphill, the IONIQ PHEV and Hybrid increase internal-combustion engine operation to charge the battery. When a sufficient battery state-of-charge is reached during downhill driving, e-motor intervention increases to minimize fuel consumption and further energy is simultaneously recovered through regenerative braking.
Taking a cue from its similarly innovative Kona Electric, the latest IONIQ Electric adopts 1-pedal driving capability, allowing the driver to stop the car by simply holding onto the left paddle shift lever with often no need to engage the braking pedal. This maximizes the use of regenerative braking technology. Using Smart Regenerative Braking, the level of energy recuperation is automatically adjusted depending on the road incline and traffic situation in front when coasting.
SmartSense safety
All 2020 IONIQ models sold in North America will be equipped with a comprehensive Hyundai SmartSense technology package. This driver assistance system constantly monitors the environment around the car alerting drivers to potential hazards while on the road. This system includes standard Forward Collision Avoidance Assist, High Beam Assist and a Drivers Attention Warning. There are also new segment first features like Highway Driving Assist and Lane Following Assist to make long trips less stressful and more comfortable.
Eco-conscious materials
A key characteristic of the IONIQ line is its innovative use of recycled or ecologically-sensitive materials. The interior door covers are made of plastic combined with powdered wood and volcanic stone while providing the same quality appearance of typical materials but reducing weight by 20%. The softer, more natural feel is achieved along with less reliance on oil-based products.
Raw materials extracted from sugar cane are partly applied on the headliner and cargo area. In fact, sugar cane accounts for 25% of the raw materials used. Paint with renewable ingredients extracted from soybean oil is used to achieve lustrous metallic colours on key components.
Currently, only the IONIQ Hybrid is sold in Malaysia and local assembly at the Inokom plant in Kedah keeps its price down. Presumably, the updated version will be available next year as the model sells reasonably well with a price just under RM100,000.
