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The Hyundai Motor Way constitutes Hyundai's pivotal electrification strategy aimed at delivering two million electric vehicles to the global market by 2030.This comprehensive strategy encompasses the adoption of the Integrated Modular Architecture (IMA), bolstering electric vehicle manufacturing capabilities, elevating battery proficiency, and establishing a value chain spanning all sectors.
[The introduction of the IMA] The development of a dedicated next-generation EV platform to replace the existing E-GMP EV platform.
[Srengthening electric vehicle production capabilities] The construction of new EV factories to expand EV production and optimize capacity. The repurposing of existing internal combustion engine facilities for electric vehicle production, resulting in cost and time savings.
[The enhancement of battery capabilities and the fortification of the entire battery value chain] Encompassment of the stable sourcing of battery materials, enhancement of design proficiency, and the development of cutting-edge batteries.
Hyundai is committed to proactively inheriting its wealth of automotive industry expertise, technical acumen, and brand legacy. Hyundai will leverage these strengths as a distinctive strategy to position itself at the forefront of the electrification era.
Hyundai embarked on its electric vehicle journey with the SONATA Electric in 1991, marking the beginning of its electric car development. Over the years, Hyundai accumulated expertise, conducting trials of high-speed electric vehicles like the BLUE ON Electric in 2010.
In 2016, Hyundai introduced the IONIQ, its first dedicated eco-friendly model, offering three types of electric vehicles: hybrid (HEV), plug-in hybrid (PHEV), and battery electric vehicle (BEV).
In 2018, Hyundai introduced the long-range, KONA Electric, signifying a step forward. The pivotal moment arrived in 2021 with the launch of the IONIQ brand, dedicated exclusively for electric vehicles, ushering in a brand new era for electric cars.
IONIQ stands as Hyundai's dedicated electric vehicle brand, building upon the legacy of the original IONIQ known for its future-forward and clean mobility technology. The word IONIQ combines 'Ion,' signifying energy generated through electricity, and 'Unique,' highlighting Hyundai's distinctive approach.
The IONIQ brand is committed to enhancing the electric experience, not just by focusing on electric vehicle technology but also by delivering innovative mobility experiences to customers.
The IONIQ lineup includes the midsize CUV IONIQ 5, introduced in 2021, followed by the IONIQ 6 in 2022. Hyundai plans to launch the next model in 2024, continuing its journey toward electrified and connected living.
One of the most revolutionary aspects of the IONIQ lineup is Hyundai's very own E-GMP (Electric Global Modular Platform). This platform stands out due to its modular and standardized design, allowing for versatile configurations across different vehicle types. The E-GMP features a smart low-mounted battery placement in the central underbody, ensuring stable driving performance and improved collision safety, regardless of the vehicle model.
The E-GMP additionally introduces Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) technology. This means it can supply power to various electronic devices even while the vehicle is moving. This innovation enables passengers to use their household gadgets inside the car, offering convenient flexibility wherever they go.
E-GMP introduces a groundbreaking interior design tailored for electric vehicles, ensuring customers a fresh electric mobility experience.
By replacing conventional internal combustion engines with electric motors, it opens up space from every seat. And thanks to the battery's placement beneath the vehicle and the removal of the center tunnel, the flat floor design significantly enhances the legroom in the rear seats.
Furthermore, the flat-floor design allows for flexible interior layouts, tailored to match customers' driving habits and lifestyles. This design provides an advanced electric mobility experience exclusive to electric vehicles, enhancing the daily moments of everyday life. For instance, drivers can create personalized spaces equipped with digital devices, transforming their car into a mobile office space when necessary. The IONIQ 5 perfectly embodies this concept, offering a cozy and modern interior atmosphere with elements like wood, fabric, and leather - ensuring a warm and comfortable feeling similar to the comfort of their home.
When we think of the advantages of hybrid vehicles, the first thing that comes to mind is their fuel efficiency. However, well-engineered hybrid vehicles not only offer excellent fuel economy but also deliver outstanding driving quality.
Hyundai constantly develops technologies to enhance driving quality. Through the development of the e-handling system, the motor efficiently controls braking, shifting, and driving torque during cornering, ensuring smooth acceleration and stable cornering performance without interruptions. Additionally, the e-EHA technology provides high stability even when the steering wheel is suddenly turned in emergency situations.
Hyundai's journey in hybrid technology began in 1995 with the introduction of the hybrid concept car FGV (Future Green Vehicle)-1, showcased at the Seoul Motor Show. In 2004, Hyundai initiated trial operations with the CLICK and GETZ Hybrid models. The launch of HD ELANTRA in 2009, equipped with a mild hybrid system, marked the start of mass production. In 2011, Hyundai globally released its first full hybrid, the YF SONATA Hybrid, expanding its production lineup.
The IONIQ Hybrid, introduced in 2016, symbolized a culmination of advanced technologies. Through dedicated research and development of powertrain and electric components, Hyundai achieved top-notch efficiency. Particularly noteworthy was its fuel efficiency, certified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) at 22.4km/l (58mpg) based on North American standards. This achievement made the IONIQ Hybrid the most fuel-efficient hybrid vehicle in 2016, maintaining its position until 2018, highlighting Hyundai's technological excellence.
IONIQ, the pioneer of electrification, set a milestone by mass-producing three eco-friendly powertrains on a single platform: the IONIQ Hybrid in January 2016, the IONIQ Electric in July 2016, and the IONIQ Plug-in Hybrid in February 2017. Currently, Hyundai applies hybrid technology to various models, including ELANTRA, SONATA, AZERA, SANTA FE, TUCSON and KONA, with plans to develop hybrid systems for large SUVs in the future.
One of the most significant advantages of hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles(FCEVs) is that electricity generation occurs within the fuel cell system while driving. This means there's no need for large batteries that require charging, making hydrogen vehicles particularly appealing for commercial vehicles - especially trucks and the logistics industry. This feature could be a gamechanger for businesses that need to swiftly get back on the road.
Following the development of the SANTA FE Hydrogen Fuel Cell prototype in 2000, Hyundai made significant strides in the hydrogen vehicle market.
The NEXO Hydrogen Fuel Cell vehicle, launched in 2018, was recognized as one of the "Top 10 Engines" by WardsAuto in 2019, showcasing Hyundai's unique technological prowess. In 2020, Hyundai expanded its hydrogen offerings into the commercial sector with the XCIENT Fuel Cell, a hydrogen-powered truck. This move marked a significant step, establishing Hyundai's global leadership in hydrogen fuel cell technology, not only in passenger vehicles but also in the commercial sector. Learn more about FCEV, click here.
Hyundai's vision for a hydrogen society, outlined in the "Hydrogen Vision 2040," aims to make hydrogen energy accessible and widely applicable to every individual and every aspect of life and industry by the year 2040, extending beyond just transportation.
In this hydrogen-powered society, Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEVs) hold a significance that goes beyond being environmentally friendly modes of transportation. Hydrogen fuel cells are evaluated based on their reliable performance, robust durability, and high power output, making them pivotal in assessing the technological prowess of FCEVs. Furthermore, the growth of FCEVs will play a crucial role in promoting the concurrent development of related industries such as energy, steel, chemicals, and new materials.