The Hyundai Ioniq Electric, launched in 2016, represented Hyundai’s initial foray into the mass-market electric vehicle segment. The 30.5 kWh variant, producing 120 horsepower, served as the entry point to the Ioniq Electric lineup from 2016 through 2019. Positioned against rivals like the Nissan Leaf and BMW i3, the Ioniq aimed to offer a compelling combination of range, efficiency, and affordability. This model was primarily marketed in regions with developing EV infrastructure, including North America, Europe, and South Korea, and played a key role in establishing Hyundai as a contender in the burgeoning electric car market.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | IONIQ |
| Generation | IONIQ |
| Type (Engine) | 30.5 kWh (120 Hp) Electric |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | BEV (Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Liftback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 165 km/h (102.53 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.8 kg/Hp, 84.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.8 kg/Nm, 207.7 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 30.5 kWh |
| Net (usable) battery capacity | 28 kWh |
| Battery voltage | 360 V |
| Battery technology | Lithium-polymer (LiPo) |
| Battery weight | 272 kg (599.66 lbs) |
| Battery location | Below the floor, under the rear seats / Inside the trunk |
| All-electric range | 280 km (173.98 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption | 11.5 kWh/100 km (18.51 kWh/100 mi) |
| MPGe | 182 |
| km/kWh | 8.7 |
| mi/kWh | 5.4 |
| Electric motor power | 120 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 295 Nm (217.58 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor model/code | EM10 |
| Electric motor location | Front axle, Transverse |
| Electric motor type | Synchronous |
| System power | 120 Hp |
| System torque | 295 Nm (217.58 lb.-ft.) |
| Kerb Weight | 1420 kg (3130.56 lbs) |
| Max. weight | 1880 kg (4144.69 lbs) |
| Max load | 460 kg (1014.13 lbs) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 455 l (16.07 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1410 l (49.79 cu. ft.) |
| Length | 4470 mm (175.98 in) |
| Width | 1820 mm (71.65 in) |
| Height | 1450 mm (57.09 in) |
| Wheelbase | 2700 mm (106.3 in) |
| Front track | 1555 mm (61.22 in) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1564 mm (61.57 in) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 140 mm (5.51 in) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.24 |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.6 m (34.78 ft) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | One electric motor drives the front wheels |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 1 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Hyundai Ioniq Electric utilizes a front-wheel-drive, fully electric powertrain. The heart of the system is the EM10 synchronous electric motor, producing 120 horsepower and 295 Nm (217.58 lb-ft) of torque. This motor is powered by a 30.5 kWh lithium-polymer battery pack, providing a usable capacity of 28 kWh. The battery pack is positioned under the floor and partially extending into the trunk space, contributing to a lower center of gravity and improved handling. The vehicle employs a single-speed automatic transmission, typical of electric vehicles, delivering seamless acceleration. The onboard charger allows for AC charging, while DC fast charging capability provides quicker replenishment of the battery. The power electronics and inverter manage the flow of energy between the battery, motor, and other vehicle systems.
Driving Characteristics
The 120 hp Ioniq Electric offered a smooth and quiet driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took approximately 9.4 seconds, making it competitive with other early electric vehicles. While not particularly sporty, the instant torque delivery of the electric motor provided adequate responsiveness for everyday driving. The single-speed automatic transmission ensured linear acceleration without gear changes. Compared to the higher-output versions of the Ioniq Electric (and the hybrid variants), this base model prioritized efficiency over outright performance. The regenerative braking system allowed for one-pedal driving in certain conditions, enhancing efficiency and driver convenience. The relatively low weight of the vehicle (1420 kg / 3130.56 lbs) contributed to its nimble handling.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The base Ioniq Electric trim typically included standard features such as automatic climate control, a touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto), a rearview camera, and a suite of safety features including automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with a focus on practicality and durability. Optional extras included features like a larger touchscreen display, heated front seats, a sunroof, and advanced driver-assistance systems like adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring. The interior design was minimalist and modern, emphasizing functionality and space efficiency.
Chassis & Braking
The Ioniq Electric features an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and a torsion beam suspension at the rear. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality while maintaining reasonable handling characteristics. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. The inclusion of ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and electronic stability control enhanced safety. The electric power steering system offered light and precise steering feel. The vehicle’s relatively low center of gravity, thanks to the battery pack’s placement, contributed to its stability and cornering ability. The tires were typically 205/55 R16, balancing rolling resistance for efficiency with adequate grip.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hyundai Ioniq Electric was generally well-received by critics for its affordability, range, and efficiency. It offered a compelling alternative to established EV players like the Nissan Leaf. Compared to the Ioniq Hybrid, the Electric model provided zero-emission driving but came with a higher price tag. Against the BMW i3, the Ioniq Electric offered a more conventional liftback body style and a lower price point, but the i3 boasted a more premium interior and unique design. Fuel economy, measured in MPGe, was rated at 182, making it one of the most efficient EVs available at the time. Reliability reports were generally positive, with owners reporting few major issues with the powertrain.
Legacy
The Hyundai Ioniq Electric, particularly the 30.5 kWh variant, played a significant role in popularizing electric vehicles and establishing Hyundai as a serious contender in the EV market. While the battery capacity is relatively modest by today’s standards, the Ioniq Electric offered a practical and affordable entry point into electric mobility. On the used car market, these models remain relatively affordable and represent a good value for those seeking a short-range electric vehicle. The powertrain has proven to be generally reliable, with many examples still in service today. The Ioniq Electric paved the way for Hyundai’s subsequent EV offerings, including the Kona Electric and the Ioniq 5, which have further cemented the brand’s position in the electric vehicle landscape.
