The Hyundai Seven is the “segment-busting” electric SUV with room for the family and then some
The Hyundai Seven is the “segment-busting” electric SUV with room for the family and then some, with the massive three-row EV bruiser unveiled at the AutoMobility LA show.
Only a concept at this point (though tipped to enter production in 2023) the Seven is clearly a sign of things to come for Hyundai, with the large SUV offering little in the way of make-believe technology or impossible-to-replicate design. And if the Ioniq 5 is anything to go by, we’d expect the Seven to make it through to production looking a lot like the vehicle we see here today.
It’s also, you’ll notice, a lot like sister brand Kia’s new Concept EV9, also revealed today.
While the seats inside are big and luxurious, the Seven is clearly designed to be a three-row, seven-seat SUV, essentially plugging a gap in the current EV line-ups from most brands, including Hyundai.
But how does a big SUV handle range, what with all the extra weight? Apparently pretty well, says Hyundai, with the Seven Concept capable of charging from 10 percent to 80 percent in 20 minutes, and delivering a “target” driving range of more than 480km.
Not bad for a big SUV. And we do mean big. Riding on a version of Hyundai’s E-GMP platform, the Seven’s wheelbase stretches some 3200mm.
That sleek exterior design is aided by integrated Active Air Flaps, which deploy or retract depending on whether brake cooling or aerodynamic slip is required.
Like most modern EVs, the cabin is a study in sustainability, with Hyundai using all sorts os recycled materials (think mineral plaster and bamboo-derived wood and carpet fibres), and in these weird times, the brand has also used copper and hygienically treated fabric in the cabin to up the anti-bacterial factor.
“The SEVEN concept demonstrates Hyundai’s creative vision and advanced technological development for our electrified mobility future,” said José Muñoz, President and CEO, Hyundai Motor North America. “Its innovative interior space, eco-friendly powertrain and cutting-edge safety and convenience technologies reveal an exciting future for Hyundai SUV customers.”