Hyundai Says Ioniq World-Beater in Fuel Efficiency

Hyundai unveils its new Ioniq hybrid, which it bills as the world’s most fuel-efficient hybrid, at the Namyang R&D center in Korea.

According to company specifications, the Ioniq’s fuel efficiency rating is 52.7 mpg (4.5 L/100 km), achieved with a 1.6L Kappa GDi engine making 104 hp and 109 lb.-ft. (148 Nm) of torque and developed specifically for hybrid applications.

The Kappa engine is mated to a permanent-magnet electric motor delivering 43 hp and 125 lb.-ft. (169 Nm) maximum torque, powered by a lithium-ion-polymer battery pack set low and forward to provide a low center of gravity that enhances cornering stability, Hyundai says.

The hybrid unit shown in Namyang has a body that combines aluminum hood, tailgate, front-wheel lower arm and knuckle and rear-wheel carriers with high-strength steel in all energy-absorbing areas. Using aluminum instead of steel reduces weight of the hood and rear deck 45%, or 27.8 lbs. (12.6 kg).

Hyundai applies a newly developed 6-speed dual-clutch transmission, optimized for the hybrid application with power-transmission efficiency of 95.7%. Suspension is optimized by incorporating a dual lower-arm rear multilink system.

The Ioniq’s exterior styling used as its theme the sleek body of the orca, or killer whale, according to a spokesman. Metal-to-metal body adhesives are used to the maximum.

Plug-in hybrid and all-electric versions using the same body will be introduced later this year, Hyundai says.

The all-new Ioniq hybrid goes on sale in mid-January priced at 22.9 million-27.8 million won ($19,000-$23,000). The pricing includes government tax abatements for hybrid vehicles.