Domestic Electric Vehicle Era with 130,000 Units... Which Electric Cars Are Expected to Launch Next Year?

[Asia Economy Reporter Suyeon Woo] As the cumulative number of electric vehicles (EVs) distributed domestically has surpassed 134,000 units this year, the government’s plan to add 100,000 more EVs next year has drawn attention to the electric vehicles preparing for release in the domestic market next year.

According to the previously announced '2021 Economic Policy Direction,' the government plans to distribute an additional 100,000 EVs next year, expanding the cumulative domestic EV distribution to 230,000 units by the end of next year. Furthermore, by 2025, the government aims to increase the number of EVs on domestic roads to 1.13 million, ushering in an era of EV popularization.

According to industry sources on the 20th, domestic automakers and importers are preparing to launch about ten new EV models next year. First, Hyundai Motor Company will introduce the 'Ioniq 5,' the first model to adopt the dedicated EV platform E-GMP. The Ioniq 5 is expected to be a new-concept EV capable of traveling 500 km on a single charge and 100 km with a 5-minute charge.

Rendering image of Hyundai Motor Company's Ioniq brand lineup. From the left, Ioniq 6, Ioniq 7, Ioniq 5. Photo by Hyundai Motor Company

By applying the new platform, the overhang (distance from the vehicle end to the wheel center) has been reduced, and the wheelbase (distance between axles) has been extended to secure a spacious interior. The battery is installed flat under the vehicle floor, creating a flat interior space without protrusions, allowing the car to be used as a single living space.

Kia Motors is also awaiting the launch of the CV (project name) model applying the E-GMP platform, and Genesis is preparing to release electric vehicles in its lineup, including the JW (project name) and e80.

SsangYong Motor Compact SUV Electric Vehicle E100 Teaser Image

SsangYong Motor will introduce its first brand electric vehicle, the 'E100,' based on the compact mid-size sport utility vehicle (SUV) Korando. Although detailed specifications have not yet been disclosed, some design elements have been revealed through teaser images.

The design of the E100 mimics shark fins and scale shapes, optimized for urban driving with streamlined lines. To reduce vehicle weight and optimize the center of gravity, the hood (engine cover) is made of aluminum material.

Imported car brands will also bring a large number of EVs to the domestic market next year. Tesla is preparing to launch the Model Y, while strong competitors such as Mercedes-Benz’s EQA and EQS, BMW’s iX and iX3, and Audi’s e-tron Sportback 55 are gearing up to target the Korean market.