Hyundai unveils Concept THREE compact EV at IAA Mobility

Hyundai Motor has revealed its first compact electric vehicle concept under the Ioniq sub-brand, debuting the all-new Concept THREE at IAA Mobility 2025 in Munich.

The unveiling marks Hyundai’s return to Europe’s largest mobility event after a four-year absence, with the company signalling its push into the European compact EV market.

“Returning to IAA Mobility after four years away is a true milestone, and such an occasion deserves a milestone car,” Hyundai Motor Europe president and chief executive Xavier Martinet says.

“Concept THREE represents the next step in Hyundai Motor’s electrification journey. With its compact dimensions and Art of Steel design language, it embodies our vision of delivering mobility that is practical, accessible and emotionally resonant.”

Expanding EV lineup

Hyundai’s electrification roadmap includes offering an electrified version of every model in Europe by 2027 and rolling out 21 global EV models by 2030. The company is also advancing hydrogen fuel cell technology and transitioning its European factories to renewable energy.

Europe remains central to Hyundai’s EV strategy, with nearly 80 per cent of its vehicles in the region locally produced.

Concept THREE embodies Hyundai’s new Art of Steel design language, blending sculptural strength with smooth lines and material-led detail. Features include a distinctive “Aero Hatch” roofline for aerodynamic efficiency, Parametric Pixel lighting front and rear, and a cabin defined by soft yellow and grey tones with modular, customisable “Bring Your Own Lifestyle” widgets.

The interior makes use of sustainable materials such as ocean waste textiles and lightweight aluminium foam, aligning with Hyundai’s long-term decarbonisation goals.

Hyundai’s booth at the Munich’s event has been designed around its Parametric Pixel aesthetic, standing seven metres tall and 58 metres wide, complete with oversized glass pixels. Alongside Concept THREE, Hyundai is showing its full EV lineup including the Insteroid concept, Kona Electric, Ioniq 5, Ioniq 6 N, Ioniq 9 and Inster Cross.

Visitors can also test drive nine electrified models, from the Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6 to the Santa Fe and Tucson plug-in hybrids.

Hyundai says Concept THREE highlights its ambition to meet growing European demand for compact EVs, with urbanisation and stricter sustainability policies driving the market.

The company describes the model as both a design statement and a practical response to changing mobility needs. Concept THREE, Hyundai says, “demonstrates the next step in the company’s electrification journey” while strengthening its competitive position in the global EV race.