The first day of the 2023 Manila International Auto Show (MIAS) marked the debut of Hyundai Motor Philippines Inc. (HMPH) as the new distributor of Hyundai passenger cars in the country.

In addition, the brand also previewed the much-awaited IONIQ 6 electric vehicle (EV), which won the 2023 World Car Design of The Year, 2023 World Electric Vehicle of the Year and the coveted 2023 World Car of The Year.

HMPH said the IONIQ 6 is set to be officially launched towards the middle of the year for around ₱4,000,000.

Swoopy styling

Unlike the retro-style boxy shape of the Hyundai IONIQ 5, the IONIQ 6 has a more futuristic-looking silhouette.

Built on the brand’s trademark Electric-Global Modular Platform or E-GMP, the IONIQ 6 has better stability and handling.

It is also equipped with the brand’s proprietary driver-assistance system that includes Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control, Highway Driving Assist 2 and Remote Smart Parking Assist 2, among others.

Charging-wise, the IONIQ 6 also supports both 400V and 800V, which boosts battery life from 10 to 80 percent in just under 18 minutes.

Tuned up with a top speed of 185 km/h and powerful acceleration, the IONIQ 6 can do 0 to 100 km/h in 5.1 seconds. Hyundai claims a maximum range of 545 kilometers.

Mobile emergency charging

In an effort to solidify the confidence and peace of mind among owners, HMPH said it will soon launch a Vehicle-to-Vehicle or V2V Service, wherein the IONIQ 5 will be utilized for mobile charging.

Similar to roadside emergency assistance, there will be a hotline that Filipino customers can call.

It will first be rolled out in the National Capital Region, with the charging process taking four minutes. This produces 7 KWh or about 20 to 30 kilometers of extra range.

“We take pride in our evolution from a car manufacturer to a mobility service provider," Lee said.

"So please expect us to come up with more innovative solutions and initiatives such as these that make lives easier and more meaningful for our Filipino customers and the community at large,” he added.

Carbon-neutral by 2045

Since 2022, Hyundai has been bringing in the next-generation Hyundai models to the local market with the aim of building solutions for a more sustainable future.

These included the latest iterations of familiar nameplates, such as the Palisade and Tucson, as well as new cars like the Creta and Staria.

It also ventured into the highly competitive multi-purpose segment with the Stargazer and the rapidly growing EV segment with the IONIQ 5. This is in line with Hyundai Motor’s interest to achieve its Carbon Neutrality 2045 Agenda with electrification as the top priority.

“The IONIQ sub-brand was designed to support, if not jumpstart, our customers' journey to go green," Lee said.

"Our flagship model, the IONIQ 5, became a validation that we are on the right track," he added. "It has garnered numerous recognitions, paving the way for our newest mid-size electric sedan."

MIAS-exclusive deals

The entire HMPH range is on display and open for test drives until April 16, 2023.

From 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., visitors can drop by the IONIQ 5 Powered lounge and ice cream bar to get a sweet treat when they register and inquire.

And those who place a reservation for a new Hyundai will be entitled to receive a Hyundai-branded New Earth Washable Paper Bag.

Specific to Stargazer and Creta intenders, a ₱10,000 discount voucher will be given. The full terms and conditions can be found on the Hyundai Motor Philippines website.

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