Hyundai recently teased the Ioniq 6 and Ioniq 7, but it appears the company is also considering entry-level Ioniq models.
Speaking to Automotive News Europe, Hyundai’s head of global marketing suggested the Kona EV successor could become a member of the Ioniq lineup.
While Thomas Schemera didn’t outright confirm it, he told the publication “it seems to be likely” that the model’s successor could adopt the Ioniq 2, 3 or 4 moniker. He went on to say, “It would make sense to extend all the benefits associated with the E-GMP platform to smaller vehicles.”
Also Read: Hyundai To Stop Selling ICE Models In Europe In 2035
The platform debuted on the Ioniq 5, which will be offered in two different configurations in the United States. Both versions have a 77.4 kWh battery pack, but the entry-level variant has a rear-mounted electric motor that produces 225 hp (168 kW / 228 PS) and 258 lb-ft (350 Nm) of torque. This setup is expected to deliver a range of 300 miles (483 km) on a single charge.
The US-spec Ioniq 5 will also be offered with a dual-motor powertrain that develops 320 hp (239 kW / 324 PS) and 446 lb-ft (605 Nm) of torque. While the range drops to 269 miles (433 km), the model is slated to accelerate from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in less than five seconds.
Getting back to an entry-level Ioniq model, Schemera said the company has taken an interest in Volkswagen’s ID. Life concept as he called it a “yardstick” for Hyundai. As a refresher, the concept previews an upcoming production model that will arrive in 2025 and cost around €20,000 ($23,610 / £17,069).
This would make it a natural competitor to an entry-level Hyundai Ioniq and Schemera said if Volkswagen is able to achieve that price point, the company might need to “come close or beat it.” He went on to suggest this was doable as it might not take Hyundai until 2025 to introduce an affordable EV.
