Hyundai IONIQ 5 revealed with 800V fast-charging

The IONIQ 5 – the first in a series of new electric models from Hyundai’s new EV sub-brand – has made its global digital debut ahead of its Australian release in the third quarter of this year.

Wrapped in a low-slung five-door wagon body that “explores new experiences only possible with dedicated BEV platform”, the all-new battery-powered mid-size SUV is said to evoke the “daring attitude of Hyundai Pony”, the Korean car-maker’s first production model 45 years ago.

The IONIQ 5 is based on the Hyundai group’s new Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), which supports ultra-fast 400V and 800V multi-charging capability, plus a Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) function that can turn the vehicle into a charger on wheels.

Hyundai’s third EV model following the small IONIQ Electric liftback and Kona Electric small SUV rides on a long 3000mm wheelbase – longer than the upcoming Nissan Ariya, Tesla Model Y, Polestar 2 and Volkswagen ID.4 small SUVs, and even the Audi e-tron and Mercedes-Benz EQC large luxury e-SUVs.

The lengthy wheelbase and under-vehicle battery placement affords the IONIQ 5 a completely flat floor and a ‘Living Space’ interior theme highlighted by a moveable centre console that can slide across 140mm, dubbed Universal Island.

Many of its components, including the powered front seats that are 30 per cent thinner to deliver more space behind them, as well as the headlining, door trims, floor and armrests, are made from sustainable-sourced materials such as recycled PET bottles, plant-based (bio PET) yarns and natural wool yarns, eco-processed leather with plant-based extracts, and bio paint with plant extracts.

The IONIQ 5 is not just eco-friendly, but fast and efficient too.

Two battery pack options – 58kWh or 72.6kWh – and two electric motor layouts – rear or front/rear – will be available, the latter providing all-wheel drive. With the high-capacity battery, the dual-motor AWD model is claimed to deliver total outputs of 225kW and 605Nm of torque, and hit 100km/h in just 5.2 seconds.

That figure rises to 6.1sec in 58kWh dual-motor AWD form, to 7.4sec in 72.6kWh single-motor 2WD form (in which peak torque reduces to 350Nm), and to 8.5sec in 58kWh/2WD guise. All versions will have a 185km/h top speed.

In 72.6kWh battery, rear-drive form the IONIQ 5 is claimed to offer a maximum driving range of 470-480km (WLTP).

What’s more, the IONIQ 5 will come with a 1600kg towing capacity.

Providing clear clues to the technical make-up of subsequent electric models like the IONIQ 6 electric sedan, the large IONIQ 7 electric SUV and seven forthcoming Kia EVs, the IONIQ 5’s E-GMP can support both 400V and 800V charging infrastructures.

The platform offers 800V charging capability as standard, but can also be charged at 400V without the need for additional components or adapters. In what Hyundai claims is a world-first, patented technology operates the motor and inverter to boost 400V to 800V for stable charging compatibility.

With a 350kW charger, Hyundai says the IONIQ 5 can be charged from 10 to 80 per cent in just 18 minutes, with five minutes providing 100km of range.

There’s also a clever V2L function can also supply electric devices such as e-bikes, scooters or camping equipment with 3.6kW of power from a port under the second-row seats when the vehicle is on, or via an external port even if the vehicle is turned off.

Externally, key design features include Hyundai’s first clamshell bonnet, a V-shape front bumper graphic incorporating distinctive daytime running lights (DRLs), automatic flush door handles, aero-optimised wheels up to 20-inch and a C-pillar previewed by Hyundai’s ‘45’ EV concept.

Nine exterior paint colours including five nature-inspired hues exclusive to the IONIQ 5 will be offered alongside three interior colour options.

The IONIQ 5 measures 4635mm long, 1890mm wide and 1605mm high, positioning it between the Hyundai Tucson and Santa Fe for overall dimensions, and offers a 531-litre boot that extends to 1591L with the rear seats folded. There’s also at least 24 litres of storage under the bonnet.

Inside, a wide, configurable dual cockpit features a 12.0-inch touch-screen infotainment system, a hoodless and configurable 12.0-inch digital instrument cluster and, for the first time in a Hyundai, an Augmented Reality Head-Up Display (AR HUD) that in effect turns the windscreen into a display screen.

Naturally, the IONIQ 5 comes with all of Hyundai’s latest safety and driver assistance systems including Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA), Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA), Intelligent Speed Limit Assist (ISLA), Driver Attention Warning (DAW), High Beam Assist (HBA) and Hyundai’s new Highway Driving Assist 2 (HDA 2) function.

“IONIQ 5 will accommodate lifestyles without limits, proactively caring for customers’ needs throughout their journey,” said Hyundai’s executive vice-president and global chief marketing Officer, Thomas Schemera.

“It is truly the first electric vehicle to provide a new experience with its innovative use of interior space and advanced technologies.”