Hyundai Pony goes electric
Restomod version of classic Pony emerges with high-tech EV underpinnings from IONIQ 5Hyundai has delivered a retro-modern take on the iconic Hyundai Pony, inserting some of its latest technology into its first-ever mass-production model that first hit the road in 1975.
That includes an EV powertrain, believed to have been transplanted straight from the South Korean car-maker’s upcoming IONIQ 5, as well as various other “future-oriented elements” that bring Hyundai’s classic small car into the 21st century.
These include fresh pixelated round LED headlights and U-shaped tail-lights, along with fender-mounted “mirrors” which are actually camera pods.
Dubbed the Hyundai Heritage Series Pony, the one-off build is finished in a “shimmering” matte silver paint.
At first glance the cabin looks like it was plucked from yesteryear, but closer inspection reveals plenty of modern, even futuristic, touches.
There’s digital-touch transmission, cradle space for a mobile phone and voice-activated steering wheel that Hyundai says “conveys a modern sensibility that will catch people by surprise”.
The close links between the Pony and the IONIQ 5 have already been established, with Hyundai claiming to have evoked the “daring attitude” of the classic car with the all-new mid-size electric SUV.
The Hyundai 45 concept that previewed the IONIQ 5 also carried a variety of Pony styling cues.
Manufactured from 1975-1990, the Pony arguably paved the way for Hyundai to enter export markets.
Originally marketed as “high spirited”, the Pony was rated at 14 seconds for the 0-60mph dash.
In many regions the Pony was replaced by the Excel badge.
The original Hyundai Pony was penned by Giorgetto Giugiaro, the man responsible for a host of iconic vehicles including the Lancia Delta, BMW M1, Lotus Esprit and the DeLorean.
The retromod is currently on show as part of a ‘Reflections in Motion’ exhibition at the Hyundai Motorstudio in Busan, South Korea.
Related: Hyundai IONIQ 5 revealed with 800V fast-charging
Related: Hyundai IONIQ 5 video walk-round
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