Hyundai-Sime Darby Motors (HSDM) has added two more variants to its flagship IONIQ 6 EV range with the introduction of the Lite and Plus versions which join the Max RWD and Max AWD versions that were launched in July.
“In introducing the new Lite and Plus variants of the IONIQ 6, HSDM is bringing the current pinnacle of Hyundai’s electric vehicle line-up, and a truly globally-acclaimed EV, within reach of more Malaysian buyers,” said Low Yuan Lung, Managing Director of HSDM.
The IONIQ 6 range in Malaysia now begins with a price level of RM219,888 with the Lite RWD, while the Plus RWD is RM249,888. The Max RWD and Max AWD versions are priced from RM289,888 and RM319,888, respectively (excluding insurance).
Smaller battery capacity
The lower prices are largely in the savings on the cost of the lithium-ion polymer battery pack which has a 53 kWh storage capacity, compared to 77.4 kWh for the Max versions. The output also differs: while the Max RWD’s single motor produces 168 kW(229 ps), the motor for the two Lite versions generates 111 kW (151 ps). Maximum torque, which is available almost from the moment of moving off, is similar at 350 Nm.
The smaller battery capacity also means the range is less, though still quite good at 429 kms which is 185 kms less range than the Max RWD. However, range is like petrol consumption – it depends on how you drive and other factors that affect how much and how fast electricity is used up.
800V architecture
All IONIQ 6 models have 800V architecture which allows more efficient and faster charging. The Lite variants can be recharged from 10% to 80% within a claimed 18 minutes but that is with a 350 kW DC fast-charger (which is not so common). Interestingly, even though the capacity of the Lite variants is 32% less than the Max, the charging time with a 350 kW supply is the same as the bigger battery.
With a 50 kW DC charger, the time is 58 minutes and if the battery pack is completely empty and you use an 11 kW AC charger, it will take at least 5.5 hours. This would normally be done at a home charger overnight.
Generally similar features
The Lite and Plus variants share much of the Max variants’ safety features, including 7 airbags (including a front-centre airbag that prevents the front occupants’ heads from hitting each other), Lane Keeping Assist, Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, and Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go.
The prices are inclusive of an 8-year/160,000 kms battery warranty and standard factory warranty. For an additional RM10,000, the standard vehicle warranty is upgradable to 5 years/100,000 kms, with 3 years (or maximum of 50,000 kms) of free scheduled service. The free one-year Shell Recharge Gold membership for the first 30 owners upon vehicle delivery continues to apply.
Multiple award winner
The IONIQ 6 has impressed greatly that it has won 3 prestigious global awards – 2023 World Car of the Year, 2023 World Electric Vehicle of the Year, and 2023 World Car Design of the Year. Recently, its powertrain was also listed among Wards 10 Best Engines & Propulsion Systems for 2023.
Click here for other news and articles about Hyundai Motor
Hyundai Motor Group creates ‘art cars’ for 2030 World Expo bid