Hyundai SEVEN concept


Is this what Hyundai’s full-sized production IONIQ 7 will look like? Sort of … .

This is actually the SEVEN concept, the latest statement on Hyundai’s commitment to carbon neutrality by 2045. On top of that, much like the ‘45’ and ‘Prophecy’ concepts that debuted in 2019 and 2020 respectively – the forebears of Ioniq’s 5 (hatchback) and 6 (sedan) – the SEVEN is similarly set to “open a new chapter for the IONIQ brand” as, possibly, the full-sized flagship SU(E)V that’s set to land in 2024.

Hyundai SEVEN concept

“The SEVEN concept demonstrates Hyundai’s creative vision and advanced technological development for our electrified mobility future,” Hyundai Motor North America president and CEO José Muñoz explains in an official statement. “Its innovative interior space, eco-friendly powertrain and cutting-edge safety and convenience technologies reveal an exciting future for Hyundai SUV customers.”

Though built on the same BEV-dedicated Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) as the Ioniq 5, the wheelbase of the SEVEN has been stretched by almost 20 centimetres up to 3.2 metres, aided by the wheels being pushed into the corners as much as possible. This allows the concept – and, presumably, its production counterpart – to seat seven occupants. The L-shaped benches meanwhile, compared with more conventional row-based seats, highlights the completely flat floor and the concept’s “more fluid interior layout.”

Hyundai SEVEN concept

Hyundai SEVEN concept

Other notable design cues include pillar-less doors, two swivelling lounge-style chairs (plus footstool), and the ‘Smart Hub’ infotainment system. In a neat touch – that probably won’t make production – the steering wheel has been replaced with a control stick that retracts when the vehicle is driven autonomously. Beneath the panoramic glass roof, which is actually a configurable OLED screen that can displays “various content” to adjust cabin atmosphere and maximize relaxation, rear passengers are also provided with mini fridges and ‘shoe-car compartments’.

Hyundai SEVEN concept

This ornate design continues on the outside. Notable elements include “an aerodynamically pure silhouette” – i.e. the curved roof and low bonnet line – the single-piece glass tailgate, and Active Air Flaps for the wheels, which can either reduce drag or cool the brakes.

In a nod to sustainability and “hygienic mobility”, the SEVEN features something called ‘bio-paint’ on the exterior, as well as interior components made from recyclable materials. In a further neat touch, extensive use of copper and hygienically-treated fabric act as antibacterial deterrents, meaning the cabin stays cleaner for longer. Inspired by passenger aircrafts, the Hygiene Airflow System reduces cross-contamination, and there’s even a UVC Sterilization system that removes bacteria and viruses via strategically-mounted pop-up ultra-violet lighting.

Powertrain options have yet to be revealed, though Hyundai has confirmed that the SEVEN is compatible with a 350 kW charger that replenishes battery life from 10 per cent to 80 per cent in around 20 minutes. The concept has also been “engineered to achieve” a 300-mile (just under 485 km) electric range.

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