Hyundai ELEXIO electric SUV under consideration for NZ

Hyundai’s new ELEXIO electric SUV is being considered for the New Zealand market following its launch in China and confirmed arrival in Australia in early 2026.

The all-electric SUV was unveiled by Hyundai Motor Company through its Chinese joint venture Beijing Hyundai at an event in Yantai, marking a strategic milestone in the company’s electrification plans.

Built on Hyundai’s proven electric vehicle (EV)-dedicated E-GMP platform, the ELEXIO is designed as a family-focused SUV with a 722km range based on the China Light-Duty Vehicle Test Cycle, translating to over 500km under WLTP testing standards.

“For the Chinese market, Hyundai leveraged the proven success of its EV-dedicated E-GMP platform and integrated localised Chinese technologies to successfully launch ELEXIO,” says Ickkyun Oh, Head of China Business Division at Hyundai Motor Company.

“This is a dedicated EV tailor-made for Chinese consumers, and the first model developed by Hyundai under the guidance of our ‘In China, For China, To Global’ strategy.”

Family-focused design and technology

The ELEXIO features an 88.1kWh battery pack and supports DC fast charging from 30 to 80 percent in approximately 27 minutes. The SUV’s charging system is compatible with 99 percent of operators in China.

Interior features include a 27-inch ultra-thin 4K widescreen display powered by a Qualcomm 8295 chip and a Cyber Eye heads-up display with a 30000:1 contrast ratio. Family-oriented features include a 506-litre boot expandable to 1540 litres, 46 flexible storage areas, and standard Dolby Atmos audio with an optional eight-speaker BOSE system.

Safety systems include what Hyundai calls a 720-degree armoured body structure with 77.5 percent high-strength steel content and a nine-airbag system featuring extended side curtain airbags and automatic pop-out mechanical door handles for emergency access.

The SUV also incorporates integrated health monitoring and fatigue detection systems, along with Family Brake Mode and active side-bolsters designed to enhance passenger comfort and reduce driver fatigue.

Australian launch confirmed

Hyundai has confirmed the ELEXIO will arrive in Australia in early 2026, with specification and pricing details to be provided closer to launch.

The launch represents Hyundai’s broader electrification strategy, with plans to expand its new energy vehicle lineup to include additional sedans and SUVs by 2030.

“Hyundai has evolved beyond a traditional automotive enterprise to become a global high-tech company dedicated to providing intelligent mobility solutions,” Oh says.

“Hyundai Motor promises to keep pace with the development of the Chinese automotive industry and meet the high expectations of Chinese consumers. The company pledges to take firm root in the Chinese market and has full confidence in its future in China.”

The ELEXIO’s consideration for New Zealand follows Hyundai’s existing EV presence in the local market, though no timeline has been provided for any potential local launch decision.