Hyundai Motor is launching connectivity and design enhancements for the new Ioniq. As of its launch in 2016, the Ioniq was the world’s first car planned from the start to offer three electrified powertrains – hybrid, plug-in hybrid and full electric. The Ioniq now gets added technological features and a refreshed look.

The new Ioniq features advanced Blue Link connectivity services, SmartSense active safety and driving assistance systems and new infotainment features. In addition, both the exterior and interior design receive updates, while drivers of the new Ioniq Electric can also enjoy 36 per cent added energy capacity thanks to an upgraded 38.3-kWh battery.

“Our new Ioniq models build on the success of the first generation thanks to a range of upgrades both in terms of connectivity features and design,” says Hyundai Motor Chief Operating Officer Thomas A. Schmid. “When it comes to Hyundai’s eco-mobility vehicles, Ioniq is leading the way by offering our customers all they need thanks to life-enhancing, easy-to-use technologies.”

The new Ioniq Electric’s battery has been upgraded from 28 kWh to 38.3 kWh, meaning drivers can go even further between charges. It boasts 36% additional energy storage capacity, offering a total of over 182 miles of range (internal target under WLTP regulations). The new car is fitted with a 7.2-kW on-board charger – an upgrade from current 6.6-kW – for Type 2 AC charging. Using a 100-kW fast-charging station, the battery can reach 80 per cent charge in as little as 54 minutes.

The new Ioniq features Hyundai Blue Link, a connected vehicle system which uses embedded telematics to allow drivers of IONIQ Electric to remote start and stop, while all versions allow remote lock or unlock and control air conditioning via a smartphone app. This technology also allows owners of the plug-in or electric model to remotely check the status of their battery so they know when they need to recharge the vehicle. Thanks to Blue Link, charging can be remotely controlled and scheduled via the app.

With the new Ioniq, Hyundai also introduces eCall, automatically dialing emergency assistance if airbags are deployed or the call button located above the rear-view mirror is pressed. Relevant information (car information, time of accident, driving direction, airbag and impact sensor information) is sent to the local emergency service.

In addition to this, the new Ioniq arrives with LIVE Services available when customers include satellite navigation. Drivers receive a five year free subscription for this feature, which offers up-to-the-minute information about: weather, traffic, speed camera warning (where legally allowed), on- and off-street parking, live nearby-dealer information as well as identifying nearby charging stations and live POI Search.

The Audio Video Navigation system, which will be available on the range, displays a variety of information across its 10.25-inch split touch-screen, and features available Cloud-based voice recognition in six languages (with Blue Link). The improved screen can be customised providing two home screen versions and ability to edit displayed widgets and icons. In addition to standard Android Auto and Apple CarPlay even with the base onboard system, with standard new Multi-Bluetooth function (with 10.25-inch AVN option only) drivers of the new Ioniq can connect two phones at the same time to listen to each phone’s music through Bluetooth streaming.

As well as the new convenience features, the new Ioniq’s reimagined interior incorporates new design features to enhance its image. In addition to standard black seat trims, customers have the option of four leather seat colours: Black, Grey two-tone, Red Umber (exclusive for hybrid and plug-in) and Electric Shadow (exclusive to electric version). Meanwhile, the dashboard garnish arrives in Dark Chrome Accent.

Up front, the hybrid and plug-in versions of the new Ioniq now show a redesigned mesh-type radiator grille. The front of the new Ioniq Electric has been updated also with a new distinctive pattern on the closed grille. All models feature an updated front bumper design with a silver-coloured molding at the bottom new anthracite on the rear bumper molding and daytime running light bezels up front, creating a more refined and dynamic look. The LED DRLs as well as the newly available LED head- and taillights have been completely redesigned to make the Ioniq stand out at night – offering not only aesthetic enhancements but also additional safety.

The Ioniq Plug-in and Electric are available with redesigned 16-inch alloy wheels, while customers of the Ioniq Hybrid can choose between a new 15-inch or 17-inch wheel design. The new Ioniq is available in nine exterior paint colours, including four new ones: Fluidic Metal, Electric Shadow, Liquid Sand and Typhoon Silver in addition to Phantom Black, Polar White, Iron Grey, Intense Blue and Fiery Red.

Taking a cue from the Kona Electric, as a maximum use of regenerative braking technology, the new Ioniq Electric adopts 1-pedal driving capability, which allows drivers to stop the car by simply holding onto the left paddle shift lever with often no need to engage the brake pedal. Working thus via Smart Regenerative Braking, the level of energy recuperation is automatically adjusted depending on the road incline and traffic situation in front when coasting. The new Ioniq Electric also features Eco+, which supplements the standard Eco, Comfort and Sport driving modes. By selecting the Eco+ mode, drivers reduce their energy consumption and the car’s remaining energy can be extended during unforeseeable emergency situations.