Hyundai's First Chinese EV, Elexio EO, to Open Pre-sale on October 16 with a Max 722 km Range
EV editor focused on charging, batteries and ownership costs. Drives a Kia EV6 GT and does tough winter range tests.
In a strategic move to capture the burgeoning electric vehicle market in China, Beijing-Hyundai is set to unveil its first fully electric SUV, the Elexio EO. The pre-sale is scheduled to start on October 16, marking a significant milestone in the company's 'In China, for China, and to the world' initiative. With a notable range and cutting-edge features, the Elexio EO is poised to make a strong impression.
The Elexio EO is being launched as a part of Beijing-Hyundai's ambitious strategy to introduce two to three new energy vehicles annually over the next four years. This plan aligns with their broader goal of solidifying their presence in China and expanding globally. The SUV is built on Hyundai's advanced Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), which promises enhanced performance and efficiency. It is equipped with the Qualcomm Snapdragon SA8295P chip, ensuring a seamless technological experience for users. One of the standout features of the Elexio EO is its impressive CLTC range of up to 722 kilometers, a specification that positions it competitively within the electric vehicle market.
The design of the Elexio EO is both innovative and aesthetically pleasing, drawing inspiration from Morse code. The front of the vehicle features a distinct square headlight design composed of 152 LED units, creating a modern and sophisticated look. The side profile is sleek, with a downward sloping roofline from the B-pillar, complemented by hidden door handles and an elegant D-pillar design. The rear of the SUV is equally striking, with a contrasting side trim strip that wraps around the rear roof, integrating a high-mounted brake light and a rearview camera.
The Elexio EO offers versatility with both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) options. The FWD model is powered by an electric motor producing a maximum power of 160 kW (215 hp), while the AWD version includes an additional rear motor with 73 kW (98 hp), providing enhanced traction and performance. Battery options are also diverse, with capacities of 64.2 kWh and 88.1 kWh, delivering ranges between 518 km and 722 km. Fast charging capabilities further enhance the vehicle's appeal, allowing the battery to charge from 30% to 80% in just 27 minutes.
Inside, the Elexio EO is designed for comfort and functionality. The cockpit features a 27-inch integrated display, combining a central control screen with a co-pilot entertainment screen, both boasting 4K resolution and high brightness. The center console is modernized, forgoing traditional physical buttons in favor of a streamlined design, and includes standard heads-up display (HUD) technology. The interior is designed with practicality in mind, offering 29 storage spaces to accommodate various needs.
Beijing-Hyundai's launch of the Elexio EO is a significant step in their strategy to dominate the electric vehicle segment in China. In September alone, the joint venture reported a sales increase of 8% year-on-year, underscoring the growing demand for their vehicles. The introduction of the Elexio EO is expected to further boost sales and solidify the company's position as a key player in the new energy vehicle market.
Looking ahead, Beijing-Hyundai's commitment to launching a variety of new energy vehicles annually promises to diversify their portfolio, including sedans, SUVs, and MPVs in battery electric vehicle (BEV), plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), and extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) variants. This strategy not only aims to meet the evolving demands of Chinese consumers but also positions the company to compete globally in the rapidly expanding electric vehicle market.
About Elena Park
EV editor focused on charging, batteries and ownership costs. Drives a Kia EV6 GT and does tough winter range tests.
