Hyundai Elexio Debuts

The Elexio: Hyundai’s New Electric SUV

There’s a new electric contender on the block and it’s called the Elexio, marking a significant milestone for the Hyundai-BAIC Motor joint venture in China. This is Hyundai’s first electric vehicle (EV) made in China, showing off a range that might make even Tesla owners a tad envious at 435 miles on a single charge.

Design Language

Say goodbye to the Ioniq look. The Elexio is shaking things up with its own unique style. Up front, it skips the traditional grille, sporting a sleek, aerodynamic face with sporty bumper intakes. The full-width LED strip below the headlights adds a futuristic flair. The body features sculpted fenders, and a stylized dark D-pillar seamlessly extends into the rear spoiler. The rear is just as fancy, with high-set lights and bold branding—it’s both sleek and sporty.

Inside Look

Step into the Elexio and the lack of physical buttons stands out. Hyundai is touting an “intelligent interface” paired with a digital instrument cluster, pushing the boundaries of car interiors. Powered by the Qualcomm SA8295, the infotainment system supports modern connectivity, while the cabin is designed for simplicity and utility, offering multiple storage spaces. Safety isn’t compromised, boasting the latest ADAS for Level 2+ autonomous driving features.

Powerful Platform

Underneath, it’s all about the E-GMP platform, shared with other electric models from Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis. Details are sparse on the motor specifics, but this platform usually handles both single and dual motor setups, providing flexibility in performance. The battery supports rapid charging, leaping from 30% to 80% in just 27 minutes – perfect for quick stops.

Made in China

The Elexio will be rolling off production lines in China, directly tackling the competitive local market. No word yet on when or if this model might grace American shores, but Hyundai’s $1.1 billion push into this joint venture says they’re serious about making waves in the EV scene. This kind of investment aims to create vehicles tailored for Chinese consumers while keeping an eye towards expanding exports.

The Driving Experience

Behind the wheel, driving the Elexio promises to be a refreshing experience. Though specific driving stats are yet to be shared, expect a smooth ride typical of the E-GMP’s sophisticated suspension system and balance. Compared to Hyundai’s other models like the Ioniq 5, this should offer a similar tranquility but with a new energetic twist thanks to its unique design and tech features.

It’s an exciting time in the automotive world, especially with the new Elexio expected to hit the roads soon. Whether its unique flair will capture international interest remains a big question, but for now, it’s a big, bold EV move for Hyundai in the local market that deserves a second glance.