Hyundai Debuts Mid Sector BEV Competitor
Hyundai’s assault on the mid-sector BEV market sees the official debut of the Ioniq 6 Streamliner executive cruiser claiming a 380-mile maximum range between charges.
It features ultra-fast, 400-V/800-V multi-charging capability made possible by Hyundai Motor Group’s Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP). It also has what may be Hyundai’s most aerodynamic styling to date and an array of empowering features, such as Dual Color Ambient Lighting, Speed Sync Lighting, EV Performance Tune-up and Electric Active Sound Design (e-ASD), enhancing the electric mobility experience.
Its powertrain is available with a range of drive motors and battery packs to fit the needs of diverse customer. The long-range 77.4-kWh battery can be mated with two electric motor layouts, either rear-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive. The top-of-the-range dual motor setup is an AWD option producing a claimed combined power output of 320bhp and 446ft-lbs of torque. This configuration claims a sprint time from standstill to 62mph in 5.1 seconds.
The energy consumption of the 53-kWh standard battery with 18-inch tire and RWD motor option is estimated to be under 14 kWh/100 km, according to WLTP. As with the Ioniq 5 before it, the car provides a vehicle-to-load (V2L) function that allows customers to charge any electric devices, ideal for powering necessities during a power outage, camping or outdoor projects. V2L is enabled using an available accessory adaptor and goes into the outside charging port. In addition to the outside power outlet, there is a second outlet underneath the back row seat for charging laptops, phones and other devices.
ADAS features include next level of Hyundai SmartSense, which helps to maintain a set distance and speed from the vehicle ahead when driving on a highway and helps to center the vehicle in the lane while driving, even through a bend. In case the vehicle on the side is driving very close, it assists to adjust the vehicle’s path. If driving above a certain speed, holding the steering wheel, and operating the turn signal switch automatically changes the lane in the indicated direction.
Smart Cruise Control helps to maintain distance from the vehicle ahead and drive at a speed set by the driver by reflecting the learned driving style of the driver. When it is inactive, the function learns the driver’s driving style. When activated, the function stops learning and drives automatically by mimicking the learned driving style.
Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist helps to avoid collisions with objects in front of the vehicle while driving. If a preceding vehicle suddenly slows, or if a forward-collision risk is detected, such as a stopped vehicle or a pedestrian, it provides a warning. After the warning, if the risk of collision remains, it can assist with emergency braking. While driving, if there is a risk of collision with a cyclist ahead, or with an oncoming vehicle while turning at an intersection, it can help assist with emergency braking.
Further options offer the enhanced functions of Junction Crossing, Lane-Changing Oncoming and Lane-Changing Side along with Evasive Steering Assist. While driving through an intersection if there is a risk of collision with oncoming vehicles from the left or right, it automatically assists with emergency braking. When changing lanes while driving, if there is a risk of collision with an oncoming vehicle in the next lane or a preceding vehicle in the next lane, it automatically assists with avoidance steering. If there is a risk of collision with a pedestrian, partially in the vehicle’s intended path, it automatically assists with avoidance steering.
Ioniq 6 has several driver attention-related functions. Driver Attention Warning analyzes the driver’s attention while driving and warns when necessary. It provides a warning when signs of driver inattentiveness are detected and recommends a rest if needed. During a stop, the driver is alerted if the leading vehicle departs.
Several functions work in tandem to help avoid collisions in a variety of driving situations. Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist helps avoid collisions at the rear side of the vehicle when changing lanes. When operating the turn signal to change lanes, if there is a risk of collision detected with a rear-side vehicle, it can provide a warning. If exiting a parallel parking spot and there is a risk of collision detected with a rear-side vehicle, it can assist with emergency braking. Another function, Blind-Spot View Monitor, displays video of the blind-spot view for a safe lane change. When operating the turn signal switch, it displays video of the blind-spot view for the direction indicated.
Jaehoon Chang, president and CEO, Hyundai Motor Company, said: “Ioniq 6 is the next ambitious step forward in Hyundai Motor’s strategy to accelerate its transition to electrification and into a position as a global leader in EVs. The Ioniq 6 Electrified Streamliner will provide a unique and distinctive experience for drivers and passengers, optimized in every way to redefine electric mobility.”
— Paul Myles is a seasoned automotive journalist based in Europe. Follow him on Twitter @Paulmyles_
