Hyundai Unveils Elexio EV SUV for China With New Design, 700+ km

In a strategic push to revitalise its presence in China, Hyundai has unveiled a new all-electric SUV named the Hyundai Elexio, developed specifically for the Chinese market through its joint venture with BAIC Motor—Beijing Hyundai. Breaking away from the Ioniq naming convention used for global EVs, the Elexio represents a fresh identity with a design, feature set, and technical focus tailored for China’s increasingly competitive electric vehicle segment.

The Elexio marks a significant departure from Hyundai’s existing global EV lineup in terms of styling. Debuting at a dedicated event in Shanghai, the SUV introduces a distinct visual language not currently seen in the Ioniq series. The front fascia features a grille-less design, consistent with EV trends, paired with sharp bumper intakes and a full-width LED light bar that sits beneath horizontally aligned headlights. The SUV's profile is enhanced by sculpted wheel arches, a darkened D-pillar, and a sleek roof spoiler. At the rear, the design is punctuated by high-mounted full-width taillights, oversized Hyundai lettering, and pronounced lower bumper elements. 

Though specific dimensions were not disclosed, the Elexio appears more compact than the Ioniq 9, suggesting it may serve as a mid-size or compact SUV for urban and suburban users in China.

The Elexio is underpinned by the E-GMP platform, Hyundai Motor Group’s dedicated electric vehicle architecture. This modular platform supports both single- and dual-motor configurations and is already used in various models across the Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis brands. While Hyundai has yet to release technical details on power output or motor layout, the architecture allows for scalability in performance, range, and drivetrain layout.

The most headline-grabbing figure so far is the claimed range of over 700 km per charge. This estimate is based on China's CTLC test cycle, which typically yields higher range numbers than the globally used WLTP or EPA methods. The Elexio will also support fast charging, with Hyundai claiming the battery can charge from 30% to 80% in 27 minutes. Battery size and chemistry have not yet been revealed, but the pack will be housed in a structure that meets crash safety standards.

Hyundai has not released interior images but has teased a button-free cabin layout. The design philosophy aims to offer ample storage space and an uncluttered environment. 

A new digital instrument cluster and infotainment system powered by the Qualcomm SA8295 chip are expected to bring high-end processing capabilities and next-generation connectivity. Hyundai describes the setup as an “intelligent interface,” though full specifications are pending.

In terms of safety, the Elexio will be equipped with a comprehensive ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) suite, offering Level 2+ autonomous features. 

The Elexio will be manufactured locally by Beijing Hyundai, with a domestic market launch expected in the coming months. Hyundai has not confirmed whether the model will be exported to other markets, though the company has previously indicated its intent to expand export opportunities from China.