By Mike Torpey on 2016-03-01 - Driving Force news editor and responsible for organising our daily output. He was staff motoring editor of the Liverpool Echo for 20 years.
Hyundai's
three-pronged
electric charge
HYUNDAI has connected the generator on its new electric IONIQ line-up at the Geneva Motor Show.
It is the world's first model offering three electrified powertrains and comprises the IONIQ Hybrid, IONIQ Electric and IONIQ Plug-in variants.
Both the IONIQ Hybrid and Plug-in models feature the new Kappa 1.6-litre GDI, direct injection petrol engine delivering 105PS, and mated to the electric motor delivers a combined 141PS for a top speed of 115mph and CO2 emissions as low as 79g/km.
Drivers opting for the Plug-in can expect around 31 miles of electric driving range powered by its lithium-ion battery, and the 61PS electric motor together with the 1.6-litre engine targets emissions as low as 32g/km.
Meanwhile, the IONIQ Electric boasts an estimated range of over 155 miles via an electric motor which produces 120PS. Its top speed is 103mph.
All the cars will come with features like Android Auto, Apple Car Play as well as Tom Tom live services and wireless smartphone charging.
Buyers also get seven airbags including a knee airbag for the driver.
And IONIQ's safety package includes Autonomous Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist System, Blind Spot Detection, Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Smart Cruise Control.
The IONIQ name comes from a combination of ion, an electrically-charged atom linking to the car's electrified powertrains, and the unique offering it brings to the brand's range.
Hyundai Motor Europe chief Thomas Schmid said: "With our pioneering ix35 Fuel Cell electric vehicle and several hybrid and plug-in hybrid models sold around the world, Hyundai Motor already has a proven capability in electrified powertrains.
"Now, with the launch of our first dedicated model, we are taking the lead as the only car manufacturer with hybrid, electric, plug-in hybrid and fuel cell vehicles in production."
The IONIQ Hybrid variant will be the first to come to market in Europe, during the second half of this year.
Hyundai has also unveiled its new Genesis G90 luxury saloon, aimed at competing at the top end of the prestige car market.
And the Korean company's Tucson compact SUV, which arrived late last year, will now come with a sixth powertrain option - a 1.7-litre diesel with seven-speed double clutch transmission.
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