The next generation of electric cars from the Hyundai Motor Group (HMG) will sit atop the new Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) architecture, beginning with the boldly styled Hyundai Ioniq 5 crossover in 2021.
The Korean group's first bespoke EV architecture will go on to underpin cars of varying sizes from Hyundai, Kia and Genesis, ranging from hatchbacks to full-size SUVs, as part of its strategy to introduce 23 full EVs by 2025.
Cars based on the E-GMP platform will offer a maximum range of more than 310 miles per charge, with standard high-speed 800V charging capability (so far available only on the Porsche Taycan), allowing an 80% charge in as little as 18 minutes from a 350kW rapid-charger.
With lower-capacity 50-150kW chargers currently more readily accessible, the platform's "multi-charging" system is also compatible with 400V infrastructure, courtesy of "world's first" patented inverter technology that adjusts charging capacity.
HMG has also done away with the conventional on-board charger that features in its current crop of EVs for a new Integrated Charging Control Unit (ICCU) that allows electricity to flow in both directions, allowing the E-GMP platform to be used as a power source for external electric machinery - including other electric cars. This new "vehicle-to-load" (V2L) function can supply up to 3.5kW of power.
The energy density of the batteries is said to be around 10% higher than those currently on sale, meaning they weigh less and can be mounted lower down in the chassis. Hyundai claims this is partly a result of a more compact cooling system, which uses oil rather than water.
The E-GMP is claimed to have been "engineered to offer improved cornering performance and driving stability at high speed". The battery pack is positioned close to the ground for a low centre of gravity, while five-link rear suspension - as featured on the new Mercedes-Benz S-Class and Rolls-Royce Ghost - combines with an innovative 'integrated drive axle' for enhanced ride comfort and stability.
The powertrain comprises a "powerful" motor of undisclosed size, a single-speed transmission and an inverter, all housed in one module. The motor, despite being more compact than HMG's existing units, is claimed to have a 70% higher maximum speed.
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Yes. Charger compatibility is interesting and exciting.
Yet another car being designed for a future that we are nowhere near. 350kW is like 200mph or 0-60 in 2 seconds, headline grabbing but totally inappropriate for everyday use. Why design a system that less than 1% need. 4-8 50kW chargers in groups is better than 1-2 350kW. As a regular driver of 250-300 mile mixed road trips I find that plugging my car in for 15-20 minutes after driving 2 hours is a relief to stretch my legs and grab a drink. By the time I get back to the car the rate of charge has dropped so much it's not worth waiting any longer to squeeze in the last few electrons when 25-30kWh has been added ready for next 2 hours.
Personally, I think the prospect of a car taking off at a juction when the lights go green & hitting 60mph by the time it reaches the pedestrian slowly finishing crossing the road at the other side of the junction a bit terrifying, very anti-social and a poor use of energy - remembering that all electricity has some environmental cost. I'd guess that cars will be restricted, in time. Don't get me wrong, I am an EV driver & advocate, but even my humble Hyundai EV can reach unsuspecting pedestrians virtually instantly, and confuse drivers pulling out of junctions who think they have plenty of time & space, if I choose to drive like an A-hole!