Hyundai has released images of the Ioniq 6 electric sedan that’s set to go head-to-head with the Polestar 2 and Tesla’s Model 3.
The second entry in Hyundai’s ‘Ioniq’ range of electric vehicles after the ‘5’ SUV, the Ioniq 6 was inspired by the Prophecy EV Concept unveiled in 2020, and most recently teased as the Electrified Streamliner, given the sleek, aerodynamic form the Korean brand has dubbed ‘Emotional Efficiency.’
“IONIQ 6 connects an emotional convergence of functionality with aesthetics,” Hyundai’s Executive VP and Head of Design SangYup Lee explains. “The distinctive streamlined design is the result of close cooperation between engineers and designers, with obsessive attention to detail and customer-centric values at the core. We have created the Ioniq 6 as a mindful cocoon that offers personalised place for all.”
Read more: Extroverts apply: The Hyundai Ioniq 5 attracts attention
Notable elements at the front include the subtly grooved hood akin to the Audi TT, a low nose, an active air flap, and a black strip beneath the headlamps (presumably housing myriad safety sensors). At the rear meanwhile, an intricate ‘Parametric’ pixel lightbar runs full-width below a raised, duck-tail spoiler, a design that’s also been subtly included within the front headlamps. Slick wing-mounted cameras have been incorporated in place of conventional wing mirrors – though these are also likely to be available – and the Ioniq 6 retains the pop-out door handles used on the Ioniq 5.
Altogether, the “single-curved streamliner” boasts a drag co-efficient of just 0.21 cd, suggesting the as-of-yet unstated estimated electric range will be higher than the Ioniq 5’s 488 km maximum.
In a pleasing move, Hyundai has also tried to avoid the cookie-cutter look indicative of other brands to give both the new sedan an individual character compared with the Ioniq 5 SUV. Albeit one drawn heavily from the Prophecy, with Hyundai admitting that, bar a slightly higher roofline, the team has remained faithful to the conceptual design.
Despite measuring 4,855 mm (just under 16 ft) in length – around 220 mm longer than its e-SUV sibling – the width and wheelbase of the Ioniq 6 is almost identical to that of the Ioniq 5 at 1,880 mm (6 ft) and 2,950 mm (9.6 ft) respectively. Both also adopt Hyundai’s Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) as their base, and though drivetrain details have not yet been provided, the Ioniq 6 is expected to feature rear and all-wheel drive configurations as well as the same 77.4 kWh or 58 kWh lithium-ion batteries.
Aiming to create a “mindful cocoon” for occupants, the cabin features a similarly streamlined design. The dashboard is dominated by two, 12-inch displays for the infotainment system and the driver’s digital cluster. while the dash itself ‘kicks’ up at both ends to house monitors for the wing-mounted cameras. Like the Ioniq 5, separate switchgear for the climate control sits beneath the central touchscreen, thus reducing complete reliance on the infotainment touchscreen. The ‘Hyundai’ emblem has also been removed from the steering wheel in place of the Ioniq-representative ‘blocks.’ In a neat touch, these illuminate to show the vehicle’s charge level.
Extending this “cocoon” further, Dual Colour Ambient Lighting – with up to 64 hues available – strafes across each door panel to help keep drivers and passengers alike relaxed and comfortable. To further promote the EV’s environmental message, eco-friendly materials only have been used in the upholstery.
Full specifications and starting prices will be revealed at the Ioniq 6’s official world premiere in July.