First details revealed: Aussie-bound Hyundai Ioniq 5

The first details of the first all-new model in Hyundai’s massive electric vehicle offensive are now public – and it’s on its way to Australia.

As reported in our comprehensive guide to Australian electric vehicle launches for 2021, the Ioniq 5 should be here by mid-year.

Closely based on the Hyundai 45 EV concept (pictured above), the 5 is the first model from the new Ioniq sub-brand.

The Hyundai spin-off is separate to the three-model Ioniq range of hybrid, plug-in hybrid and battery EV already sold in Australia.

Hyundai has promised the Ioniq sub-brand will offer three all-new dedicated electric models over the next four years.

However that is only a small part of a much larger picture as the over-arching Hyundai Motor Group that also includes Kia and Genesis plans to launch 23 BEVs by 2025.

Hyundai concept 45
Hyundai concept 45

Eleven of them including the Ioniq 5 will be based on HMG’s new E-GMP platform first shown in December.

The details breaking now relate to the Ioniq 5 First Edition, which were posted by Hyundai’s Austrian subsidiary ahead of delivery in June or July 2021.

No pricing was specified but the reservation cost for one of 150 units was 1000 Euros ($1600).

According to details reproduced by the Korean Car Blog, the first 5 will be all-wheel drive, powered by two e-motors (one on each axle) generating 230kW and fed by a 58kWh battery.

Hyundai is claiming a 450km range based on the WLTP testing procedure. It also says the 5 can accelerate from 0-100km/h in 5.2 secs.

Further investigation by KCB confirmed a 73kWh Ioniq 5 model with a 500km range will also be offered, but arrival timing was not specified.

Range of models for Hyundai's new all-electric sub-brand, Ioniq
Range of models for Hyundai’s new all-electric sub-brand, Ioniq

Of course, the Ioniq 5 will come with E-GMP technical cornerstones including an 800v electrical system that will allow 80 percent charging in 18 minutes when using a 350kW DC fast charger.

The Ioniq 5 will also have a super-long 3000mm wheelbase, reflecting the E-GMP’s skateboard layout, with the modular battery pack fitted in the floor between the front and rear axles.

The Ioniq 5 will also be 4640mm long, 1890mm wide and 1600mm high. That puts it in the medium SUV class against the Hyundai Tucson amongst many others.