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Hyundai Developing Its First EV Platform
Hyundai Motor Co. tells Reuters it’s developing its first platform designed specifically for electric powertrains.
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Hyundai Motor Co. tells Reuters it’s developing its first platform designed specifically for electric powertrains.
The company didn’t say when the chassis will be ready. In the meantime, Hyundai and its Kia affiliate plan to debut electric versions of existing small SUV/crossovers next year. Vice President Lee Ki-ssang says the vehicles will have a range in excess of 300 km (186 miles) per charge.
Electrifying a platform originally designed for piston power results in compromises in packaging and vehicle weight. Starting with a chassis designed to accommodate batteries and compact electric drivetrains enables product developers to optimize battery placement and interior roominess.
Lee tells Reuters that developing the EV platform is costly. But he says it is necessary to prepare for a global market in 2025 in which electric power accounts for 10% of all sales. EVs represent only about 1% of the market today.
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