The 2017 Hyundai Ioniq range of cars are coming and just days before the Geneva auto expo, the company has launched official pictures of the vehicle as well as its specifications. It is the brand’s debut into the world of hybrids and electric cars.

The most significant model of them all, the Ioniq electric has an electric motor with a capacity of 88kW integrated into it. The motor delivers 295Nm torque and uses a front wheel drive system with single speed transmission. The maximum speed the car can achieve is 165 kilometers per hour. The total distance the car can achieve is 250 kilometers on a single charge. It uses a 28kwh lithium ion battery pack.

A 1.6-liter four-cylinder direct injection petrol engine is used by the Hyundai Ioniq hybrid and the plug-in models. The engine is capable of producing 77kW power with 147 Nm torque. The electric motor is built into the cars and is controlled with a six speed dual clutch transmission system. The brand is confident that with the help of the multi-link suspension system, they are able to offer a fluid driving experience.

The hatchback body for the Ioniq range of cars has been made slippery in order to reduce the total drag to just 0.24 with copper accents. The car is equipped with an amazing range of features including lane keeping assist, automatic emergency braking system and smart cruise control. The infotainment system is equipped with a 7-inch display. It is fully compatible with both Apple Car Play and Android Auto.

In terms of design, the car looks very much like a sedan and borrows plenty of elements from existing Hyundai cars. However, the actual improvements lie behind the wheels and in the electric motor that powers the vehicle.

The first plug-in hybrid model of the Ioniq will be available to customers in 2017. Hyundai plans to focus on the US, UK and European market before rolling out the hybrid models in other regions. They have confirmed that the first models will be out in North America. Plug-ins may make its way to Australia but hybrids will be limited to their home markets.

Depending upon the success of the electric and hybrid cars, Hyundai may set a new benchmark in the world of EVs inspiring other manufacturers to follow suit. Their idea is to take down the likes of Toyota Prius, Chevrolet Bolt and similar EVs in stores. It’s going to be an entire year before we can comment on this one.