Bigger battery, more power Ioniq EV

This story first appeared in the december issue of evtalk CLICK HERE to download the magazine FREE

Hyundai New Zealand has launched its Series II version of the popular Ioniq EV, hybrid and plug-in hybrid – with bigger batteries and more motor power now on offer.

The new model also comes with a stiffer price tag.

While the old model with a 28kWh battery started at $59,990, the new model opens with a 38.3kWh battery is $65,990 while the full-spec Elite model is $71,990.

Hyundai has indicated it was unable to keep the price the same, and may not be able to keep it at this level for long, as the buying power of the NZ dollar continues to drop.

While an additional 10kWh for $6000 could be considered reasonable, in the case of the Elite the model is now just $3000 cheaper than a Tesla Model 3.

Range has improved a third to 311km.

“The all-electric driving range of 311km is really significant when considering a typical outdoors kiwi lifestyle,” Hyundai New Zealand general manager Andy Sinclair says.

The Ioniq’s motor is now more powerful at 100kW, while the battery can be charged at up to 100kW.

It should be noted it is air-cooled rather than liquid cooled.

Styling revisions for Ioniq include redesigned front and rear lighting, front grilles, and new alloy wheels.

Inside there is a new dashboard, ambient lighting and a new, tablet-style multimedia unit.

The larger, 10.25-inch satellite navigation multimedia system on Elite models headlines the equipment upgrades, and incorporates satellite navigation and

Apple CarPlay/Android Auto smartphone connectivity.

Hyundai’s extensive Smart Sense system now includes high beam assist and an upgraded driver attention warning system featuring leading vehicle departure alert.

The chassis tuning has been updated, with fine-tuning in Australia to work better with local conditions.

EVtalk has driven the updated Ioniq, alongside the Kona EV and hydrogen Nexo models on an extensive drive in the deep of the South Island.

Check out full coverage of that trip in our cover story for EVtalk January 2020.