South Korea’s leading carmaker Hyundai Motor said Thursday it aims to sell up to 30,000 units of its first full-on “green car,” the Ioniq.

The company plans to sell 15,000 units each at home and abroad this year. For 2017, it hopes to achieve bottom-line sales of 77,000 units.

Equipped with a new Kappa 1.6GDi engine, a high-efficient permanent magnet motor and six-speed dual-clutch transmission developed for hybrid models, the Ioniq can run up to 22.4 kilometers per liter, almost on par with the hybrid market leader Toyota Prius. 

Ioniq’s battery is located beneath the rear seats, keeping its overall weight low and balanced and also allowing more trunk space compared to other similar models, the company said.

For improved fuel efficiency and safety, the Ioniq utilizes advanced high-strength steel for 53 percent of its body structure and has seven air bags along with an advanced air bag system for the driver.

The Ioniq’s design was inspired by a killer whale, creating a “unique” aerodynamic exterior, the company said. The black-rimmed radiator grille and head lamps contrast with its surroundings, while the C-type LED daytime running lights combined with the wheel air curtain emphasize the overall dynamic image.

The vehicle is priced from 22.95 million won ($18,982) to 27.55 million won depending on trims and options. The prices reflect the tax breaks for hybrid models.

Hyundai Motor said it plans to expand its green car lineup to more than 22 models by 2020, including electric vehicles, with an aim to emerge as the world’s second-largest carmaker.

(khnews@heraldcorp.com)