Hyundai is poised to unveil the Ioniq 3, a new small electric vehicle, as a nearly production-ready concept at the Munich motor show in September, with production slated to commence early next year. This strategically positioned EV aims to fit between the existing Inster and Kona EVs in Hyundai's growing electric lineup. Despite being slightly smaller than the Kona EV, the Ioniq 3 is designed to be more sophisticated, suggesting a similar pricing strategy.

The Ioniq 3 will leverage Hyundai's most modern EV platform, emphasizing advanced connected technology. It will feature a front-wheel-drive configuration and is expected to offer a choice of two battery capacities: 58.3kWh or 81.4kWh. These battery options are projected to deliver a WLTP range of approximately 260 miles and 365 miles, respectively. Performance-wise, the Ioniq 3 is anticipated to achieve 0-62mph in under eight seconds.

For its electrical system, the Ioniq 3 will utilize a 400V setup. While this system is more cost-effective, it results in slightly slower charging times compared to the 800V architecture found in its larger siblings, the Ioniq 5, 6, and 9. Digital integration is a core focus for the Ioniq 3, offering support for Apple's CarPlay Ultra and extensive customization options for the user interface, including new synthesized EV sound effects. Hyundai's commitment to 'software-defined vehicles' is evident, as the Ioniq 3 will run on the company's proprietary Pleos operating system, enabling lifelong upgrades and downloadable options, allowing used-car buyers to re-spec vehicles to their preferences.

Manufacturing of the Ioniq 3 will take place in Turkey, a strategic decision to mitigate shipping and tariff costs for the European market. This move aligns with Hyundai's established European production footprint, which already sees a significant portion of its sales originating from factories in the Czech Republic and Turkey. Hyundai's European boss, Xavier Martinet, highlighted the brand's objective to bolster its share in the more affordable EV segment with models like the Inster and the Ioniq 3, aiming for comprehensive coverage of the EV market.

Martinet further noted that Ioniq has ascended to become the second most recognized EV brand, trailing only Tesla, a testament to the success of models like the Ioniq 5, 6, and 9. Hyundai plans to maintain its diverse powertrain strategy, continuing to offer internal combustion engine, hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and full-electric vehicles, while also exploring range-extender EVs that supplement battery power with a petrol generator. Martinet observed that while EV growth is occurring, it is not as rapid as initially anticipated or as regulatory bodies project, but crucially,