EV platform may lower Hyundai costs

Hyundai and Los Angeles-based Canoo will combine to develop an EV platform based on the latter’s skateboard design for use in new Hyundai and Kia EVs and fully electric purpose-built vehicles (PBVs).

It will allow for a simplified and standardised development process, lowering vehicle prices, says Hyundai.

The company is also doubling down on a commitment to invest US$87 billion over the next five years for future growth as well as its PBV development plan.

Canoo will provide engineering services to help develop a fully scalable, all-electric platform to meet Hyundai and Kia specifications, which Hyundai Motor Group expects will facilitate its commitment to delivering cost-competitive electrified vehicles ranging from small-sized EVs to PBVs that meet diverse customer needs.

The skateboard platform houses the vehicle’s batteries and electric drivetrain with a strong emphasis on functional integration, meaning all components fulfill as many functions as possible.

This reduces the skateboard size, weight and number of parts, which ultimately provides more interior cabin space and a more cost-effective EV offering.

Additionally, the Canoo skateboard is a self-contained unit that can be paired with any cabin design, Hyundai says.

It expects the platform will help reduce costs that can be passed along to consumers, reducing EV assembly line complexity and allowing for rapid response to changing market demands and customer preferences.

The Canoo collaboration is also expected to be autonomous ready and suitable for mass adoption.

Hyundai and Kia aim to have eco-friendly vehicles comprise 25% of total sales by 2025.

“We have been working diligently to develop a bold new electric vehicle and partnering with a global leader like Hyundai is a validating moment for our young company,” Canoo’s Ulrich Kranz says.

Canoo unveiled its first EV for subscription only on September 24, 2019 – 19 months after the company’s founding in December 2017.

Its first vehicle will launch in 2021, designed for an electric, shared and autonomous transport world.

Visit www.canoo.com

for more information.