Hyundai teases mystery electric SUV

Hyundai is getting ready to introduce a new electric SUV designed specifically for the Chinese market. A teaser video shows a heavily camouflaged prototype going through cold-weather testing. It reveals a vehicle with styling somewhat different from the globally recognized Ioniq lineup. This new SUV was developed through the Beijing Hyundai joint venture, and will add to Hyundai's EV offerings in China.

The car features a slender LED strip connecting the headlights and a muscular shoulder line leading to an upright tail with an integrated spoiler. Full-width LED taillights stretch across the rear, giving the SUV a broad and modern stance. These design elements are a big departure from the styling of the Ioniq 9, which is not available in China. The new SUV appears to be more compact, possibly similar in size to the Ioniq 5.

It is highly possible that this new SUV will use Hyundai's E-GMP platform, a flexible architecture that supports battery packs up to 110.3 kWh, hinting at the potential for a decent driving range for the new SUV. It also supports both 400 and 800-volt systems, but at this stage, it is unclear which system will be used.

Beijing Hyundai's product range primarily consists of ICE-powered vehicles, including models like the Sonata and Elantra sedans, as well as the Tucson L and Santa Fe SUVs. The Ioniq 5 N is the only electric model currently offered in China, imported from Hyundai's global inventory.

Details regarding the new SUV's specifications, including battery capacity, motor configurations, and pricing, are expected to be unveiled before the end of this month. Since the new EV is designed for the Chinese market, we don't know if it will be offered elsewhere. To stay competitive in the Chinese market, the new electric Hyundai will have to come at an attractive price, and it will have to offer advanced technology combined with a good range.

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