Hyundai locks in early 2021 for IONIQ 5 debut

Hyundai has confirmed that it will launch the all-new Hyundai IONIQ 5 in "early 2021" – the first model from the Korean car-maker's fledgling pure-electric sub-brand that has been created to challenge Volkswagen ID models.

Set to be the first of three IONIQ EVs that will be launched in the next four years, the odd-numbered models will be SUVs while even numerals will be reserved for all other body styles, including sedans and hatchbacks.

It's already been revealed that when the Hyundai IONIQ 5 arrives it will draw styling cues from the radical Hyundai 45 concept that was unveiled in 2019 at the Frankfurt motor show.

Based on the car-maker's new Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), the Hyundai IONIQ 5 will have a WLTP-verified 500km range and will be able to charge up to 80 per cent in as little as 18 minutes and add 100km in range in just five minutes.

Hyundai Motor Group has also revealed high-performance models based on E-GMP will be capable of accelerating from rest to 100km/h in 3.5 seconds and achieve a 260km/h top speed.

It also claims E-GMP delivers world-first 400V/800V multi-charging and bi-directional power conversion, enabling the IONIQ to store energy and discharge it back to the grid, home or even charge other cars or run electric tools.

There's no word on what battery pack sizes will be available, but the 800V electrical system and 350kW charging capacity suggests range-topping versions could come with 100kWh units.

Like its Volkswagen competition, the base Hyundai IONIQ 5 variants will come with a single electric motor driving the rear wheels, but a dual-motor on-demand all-wheel drive version will also be available.

With the battery pack positioned low in the platform for an optimum centre of gravity and perfect weight distribution, handling and ride should be among the best in its class, something helped by the car-maker developing a new five-link independent rear suspension.

With a long wheelbase and flat floor, the Hyundai IONIQ 5 should also offer far more space inside than an equivalent-size petrol or diesel SUV.

Hyundai, Kia and the luxury Genesis brand have already unveiled an ambitious plan that will see them introduce 23 different battery-electric models and sell one million of them worldwide by 2025.

Of those 23 battery-electric cars, 11 will be based on E-GMP while 12 will be models such as the Hyundai Kona Electric that also have internal combustion relations.