by New Hyundai Elexio Electric Model Launches in Australian Market
Hyundai has introduced a completely new electric vehicle in Australia that is not part of the Ioniq lineup. This model, named the Elexio, was developed jointly with Chinese partner BAIC. It differs from the brand’s other electric cars in both design and concept, and could become a serious player in the local market.
The main competitors of the Hyundai Elexio are named as the Tesla Model Y, Kia EV5, and BYD Sealion 7.
Positioning and Pricing
The new model will arrive in showrooms this quarter. Its starting price is 59,990 Australian dollars, positioning the model between the Kona Electric and the Ioniq 5. Thus, the Elexio fills a price niche, offering a balance of size, range, and cost.
However, it is not the most affordable on the market. For example, the BYD Sealion 7 starts from 54,990 dollars, and the Kia EV5 from 56,770 dollars. Interestingly, in China the same model costs the equivalent of 25,000 Australian dollars, which is more than twice as cheap. This discrepancy is explained by the aggressive pricing policy of Chinese manufacturers in the domestic market.
Technical Specifications
The car is built on the E-GMP architecture, but, unlike the Ioniq 5, uses a 400-volt rather than an 800-volt electrical system. The 88 kWh (lithium-iron-phosphate) battery charges from 10% to 80% at a fast charging station in approximately 38 minutes. The claimed WLTP cycle range is 546 km, with an average energy consumption of 18.2 kWh per 100 km.
The powertrain consists of a single front electric motor with an output of 160 kW (214 hp) and 310 Nm of torque. The drive is front-wheel drive, which positively impacts price and efficiency, although it may not satisfy fans of rear-wheel or all-wheel drive.
Adaptation for Australian Roads
Although the Australian version is virtually identical to the Chinese one, Hyundai made one important change: the suspension was specifically tuned for local road conditions. Standard equipment includes the modern Connect-C infotainment system with a panoramic 27-inch display, as well as a head-up display.
The arrival of the Elexio demonstrates how global automakers are adapting their strategies to regional markets, especially in the competitive electric crossover segment. The model combines technologies developed jointly with Chinese partners with localized adjustments aimed at the specific needs of drivers. Its success will depend on how much buyers appreciate this balance between price, features, and the brand’s individual approach to a specific market.
