Hyundai is stepping up its game in the burgeoning electric vehicle market with the highly anticipated Ioniq 2. Recent spy shots from Korea reveal the compact EV undergoing early road tests, showcasing a production-ready design that signals Hyundai’s push for a more accessible entry-level electric offering. Internally codenamed ‘BJ1,’ this hatchback-sized EV is slated for a global launch by 2026, positioning itself as a direct contender to models like the Volkswagen ID.2.
The Ioniq 2 marks a significant departure from its larger siblings, the Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6, by embracing a more traditional five-door hatchback silhouette rather than a crossover design. Its proportions are notably similar to Hyundai’s popular i20, but with a decidedly futuristic flair. Design elements include a sleek clamshell bonnet, slim LED headlamps echoing the updated Ioniq 6, and a coupe-like sloping rear tailgate complemented by minimalist tail lamps. A distinct window kink at the rear hints at a design influence from Hyundai’s luxury arm, Genesis, specifically the GV60.
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Underneath its stylish exterior, the Ioniq 2 is expected to utilize a front-wheel-drive variant of Hyundai’s Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP). This platform, known for its versatility, will be adapted to a 400V architecture in the Ioniq 2 to optimize cost-efficiency. Performance-wise, the Ioniq 2 is projected to deliver up to 150bhp, with an estimated range of around 400km on a single charge. This balance of power and range, coupled with a simpler drivetrain, aims to appeal to a broad spectrum of urban consumers seeking an affordable and practical EV.
Will the Ioniq 2 Electrify Indian Roads?
While Hyundai has yet to confirm the Ioniq 2’s specific availability in India, the company has been actively vocal about its ambitious EV plans for the market. Following the successful introduction of the premium Ioniq 5 and the upcoming Creta Electric, Hyundai is clearly focused on expanding its electric portfolio with more affordable options. Given its compact dimensions, five-door practicality, and emphasis on affordability, the Ioniq 2 could be an ideal fit for the Indian market, which is increasingly embracing compact and budget-friendly electric vehicles. The Ioniq 2 could play a crucial role in democratizing EV ownership in India, making sustainable mobility more accessible to a wider audience.
People Also Ask:
What is the E-GMP platform?
The E-GMP (Electric Global Modular Platform) is Hyundai Motor Group’s dedicated battery electric vehicle platform. It is a highly flexible architecture designed exclusively for electric vehicles, allowing for various vehicle types and sizes. It supports 400V and 800V charging capabilities and integrates the motor, inverter, and transmission into a single, efficient powertrain unit.
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What is the expected price of the Hyundai Ioniq 2?
While official pricing for the Ioniq 2 has not been announced, estimates suggest a starting price around €25,000 to €30,000 in European markets. If launched in India, it is expected to be positioned as Hyundai’s most affordable EV, likely slotting below the Ioniq 5 and Creta Electric.
What are the key features of the Hyundai Ioniq 2?
Based on spy shots and industry speculation, the Ioniq 2 is expected to feature a modern hatchback design with Ioniq family styling cues, a practical five-door layout, and a front-wheel-drive E-GMP platform with a 400V architecture. It’s anticipated to offer up to 150bhp and a range of approximately 400km on a full charge, making it suitable for urban commuting. Interior features are likely to include Hyundai’s latest infotainment system and advanced driver-assistance systems, aiming for a “step change” in cabin technology.
How does the Hyundai Ioniq 2 compare in size to the i20?
The Hyundai Ioniq 2 is reported to have proportions similar to the Hyundai i20. This suggests it will be a compact hatchback, well-suited for city driving and offering a familiar footprint to a popular internal combustion engine model.
What other compact EVs are expected to launch in India by 2026?
Several automakers are eyeing the compact EV segment in India. While specific models and launch dates can vary, some anticipated compact EVs and electric vehicles under development for the Indian market around 2026 include the Kia EV2 (which is developed alongside the Ioniq 2), and various offerings from Indian manufacturers like Tata and Mahindra, who are actively expanding their EV portfolios with more affordable options.
