Though this isn't Prius/Prime related, I thought others might be interested in seeing this, since this will be one of the Prime's main competitors (other than the Volt) when it comes out the end of 2017 (2018 model). Hyundai's Plug-in version of the Ioniq line will be the final of the three (hybrid, electric, plugin) to be released, (2018 model, at the end of 2017). And just found the first review of it (plug-in version) at Car & Driver: Hyundai Ioniq Reviews - Hyundai Ioniq Price, Photos, and Specs - Car and Driver (then scroll down a bit to the review part) The Hyundai-estimated EV range (no EPA yet) is 27 miles -- but the reviewer notes that the engine seems to come on a LOT in the plug-in version, as opposed to totally ICE-off EV modes for the Prime or Volt. "Clearly, Hyundai’s dedicated eco warrior doesn’t behave like the Chevrolet Volt and the Toyota Prius Prime, which flaunt their capability to drive without tailpipe emissions, keeping their gasoline engines shut off as much as possible. It was an unexpected first impression." Early on, I had considered this as a possible option (I liked the traditional layout of the car's dash), but ran into a Hyundai employee driving one around town (the normal Hybrid version), and wasn't that impressed once I actually sat inside. Anyway, a lot has been said about the Volt, but I believe this is the first review of the Plug-in version of the Ioniq so I thought I'd post it for those interested. Safe to say, I'm happy with my Prime...
Thanks for the warning. "A 60-hp electric motor" - no doubt @bisco will be happy to hear there is something the PiP can take on "this model doesn’t [have rjw] a charge-restoring mode that uses the gasoline engine to recharge the plug-in portion of the battery" - so there is no way to convert the last gas to charge to provide drive-to-safe, EV operation when the gas runs out. Bob Wilson
We have to keep in mind that it was probably just a prototype! "Hyundai notes, however, that the steering, ride, and hybrid-system calibrations we experienced could change by the time this model goes on sale this fall." It doesn't have the Prime's weaknesses,like a small boot or no 5.th seat,but it will never ever beat the Prime on efficiency . Here's another review : New Hyundai Ioniq Plug-in hybrid 2017 review | Auto Express
And that Auto Express review claims: "You can cut the petrol engine out of the equation altogether with a new feature for the PHEV; there’s now a button that forces the Ioniq to run in EV mode..."
That was meant in comparison with the normal Ioniq Hybrid which can not be forced in an electric mode only as f.e. the regular Prius Hybrid can .
idk, when you read it, and it says 'forces it to run in ev mode, with zero emissions range of 39 miles', that seems like all ev to me. but earlier, they talk about punching it, being careful not to awaken the engine. then they throw in the video of the hybrid hatch w/spare tire. idk why these articles have to be so confusing.
