IAA 2025: Hyundai Unveils Teaser of Concept Three, An 'Aero Hatch' EV

Hyundai Motor Company on Tuesday unveiled a striking teaser image of its Concept Three, the IONIQ sub-brand’s first compact electric vehicle (EV) concept, ahead of its global debut at IAA Mobility 2025 in Munich, scheduled from September 9 to 14. The bold side profile showcases Hyundai’s new “Art of Steel” design language, featuring sculpted surfaces, clean intersections and distinctive character lines that evoke both motion and precision.

Dubbed the “Aero Hatch,” Concept Three reimagines the compact EV silhouette by blending the aerodynamic efficiency of a hatchback with a sculptural form. The elongated roofline gently tapers toward the rear, optimizing airflow while maintaining a sporty stance. Sharp creases along the doors and wheel arches highlight the vehicle’s kinetic energy, while minimalistic flush door handles and concealed wheel nuts reinforce the concept’s purity of form.

Simon Loasby, Senior Vice President and Head of Hyundai Design Centre, remarked that Concept Three presented “an opportunity to rethink the compact EV from the ground up,” emphasising that the Aero Hatch typology balances functional aerodynamics with emotional appeal. Exterior designer Manuel Schoettle added, “The authenticity of the way we treated the steel fits perfectly. It just felt natural, making the Concept Three extremely pure, and hopefully it will bring a smile to your face”.

The teaser comes as Hyundai seeks to bolster its leadership in sustainable mobility and accelerate its European strategy. The unveiling at IAA Mobility marks the company’s return to Europe’s premier mobility showcase after a four-year hiatus, signalling renewed commitment to innovation and market growth in the region. Industry analysts note that compact EVs are becoming pivotal in global electrification efforts, as urban consumers increasingly demand affordable, efficient and environmentally friendly transportation solutions.

Concept Three’s significance extends beyond its design. It underscores Hyundai’s dual-pronged approach of advancing battery-electric vehicle (BEV) capabilities while exploring novel form factors that can lower production costs and improve driving range. By pushing the boundaries of steel-based construction—leveraging advanced stamping and high-strength alloys—Hyundai aims to streamline manufacturing processes and reduce overall vehicle weight, thereby enhancing energy efficiency.