SEVEN concept opens new chapter for Ioniq brand

HYUNDAI says its SEVEN battery electric SUV marks a new chapter for its Ioniq sub-brand. The family-sized concept model is purported to prioritise customer values over industry norms, while simultaneously representing the brand’s commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2045.

Built on the Hyundai-Kia E-GMP platform, the SEVEN concept offers a long (3200-mm) wheelbase with a flat floor, which its maker says will offer customers a “completely new experience”. 

The aerodynamically optimised SUV features a low bonnet profile, a streamlined roofline and purposefully elongated wheelbase to “communicate a clear break from traditional SUVs powered by internal combustion engines”. 

A broad, athletic stance is complemented by wheels that feature Active Air Flaps to channel air to the braking system as and when required, while the Parametric Pixel lights offer a “welcome sequence” on start-up, like that demonstrated by the SEVEN’s cousin, Kia’s Concept EV9.

“SEVEN dares to break from the beaten path. It paves the way forward for what an SUV needs to be in the EV era with a unique aerodynamic pure form that does not compromise on its rugged personality,” Hyundai Global Design senior vice president SangYup Lee said.

“The interior opens up a new dimension of space that cares for its passenger as a family living space (would),” he added.

By pushing the wheels as far toward the car’s corners as possible, Hyundai has extracted a cavernous interior space in which to “explore an alternative to row-based seat arrangement”. 

Hyundai executive vice president and global chief marketing officer Thomas Schemera said the SEVEN’s “more fluid interior layout” and pillarless coach doors contributed to a welcoming ambience that offers furnishing opportunities akin to those of a premium lounge.

“As proof of Hyundai’s vision of ‘Progress for Humanity’, Ioniq changes the paradigm of electric vehicle customer experiences, accommodating diverse lifestyles without constraints. SEVEN represents our commitment to a human-centered approach to redefine everyday experiences,” he said. 

The SEVEN also demonstrates Hyundai’s commitment to autonomous mobility; the driver’s seat features a retractable control stick that recedes when it’s not in use. Without the need to incorporate conventional driver controls, designers could fit larger touchscreens, swivelling lounge chairs – and a curved bench seat, which can be configured to serve various purposes.

With a range of “in-car appliances” and Hyundai’s Universal Island console design, the SEVEN even offers nice-to-have features that include a built-in mini-fridge and a shoe-care compartment to “refresh passengers’ footwear”. The panoramic roof also doubles as a screen to “guarantee maximum relaxation and pleasure during the journey”, Hyundai says.

The vehicle further incorporates various eco-friendly materials while offering segment-leading hygienic features, such as Hygiene Airflow System and UVC Sterilisation. The extensive use of copper and hygienically treated fabric with “proven antibacterial functions” ensure “all surfaces inside SEVEN remain clean at all times”, Hyundai says.

“The SEVEN concept demonstrates Hyundai’s creative vision and advanced technological development for our electrified mobility future,” Hyundai Motor North America president and CEO Jose Munoz said. 

“Its innovative interior space, eco-friendly powertrain and cutting-edge safety and convenience technologies reveal an exciting future for Hyundai SUV customers.”

Sharing a driveline with the Kia Concept EV9, the Ioniq SEVEN will be able to “provide outstanding driving range and ultra-fast charging capabilities”. 

When connected to a 350-kW DC charger, the SEVEN’s battery pack can charge from 10 to 80 per cent in “about 20 minutes”, a full charge offering a driving range of up to 480km.