Hyundai to develop mini electric car, electric scooter

The three main research areas of Project IONIQ are about predicting changes in future mobility and studying possible scenarios, developing new types of mobility according to changes in society and people's lifestyles and creating new service models and mobility experiences that extend the role and definition of "cars".

Other details are limited at present-we don't have performance numbers or weight claims-but we do know that the Ioniq sits on a new "eco" platform that will also underpin the Kia Niro hybrid later this year. The plug-in version features bi-xenon headlights, C-shaped LED positioning lights, and a blue or silver character line under the front and rear bumpers.

The hybrid versions feature blue accents throughout their cabins whereas the electric model gets copper accents to simulate the flow of electricity.

The bits under the hood are where these models really set themselves apart.

The IONIQ Hybrid and IONIQ Plug-in both feature the new Kappa 1.6 GDI, direct injection petrol, four-cylinder engine with a thermal efficiency of 40 percent, delivering 105 PS and 147 Nm of torque. This produces 104 horsepower and 108 lb-ft of torque and has been tuned, predictably, for maximum economy. The combined power output of the electric motor with the conventional engine is 141PS and 265Nm.

The Ioniq electric is powered by a 28 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery with an estimated range of over 250km.

Capable of hitting a top speed of 185 km/h. This variant can run exclusively on electricity for over 50 km with its 8.9 kWh battery.

The last to join the range will be the Ioniq Plug-in Hybrid.

There is no mention of an anticipated release date for the Ioniq, but I expect to see it in dealers by the end of 2016.