Beijing Hyundai's First Electric SUV, the EO, Set to Launch in China
Investigation
Beijing Hyundai, a joint venture between Hyundai Motor Company and BAIC, has announced the launch of its first pure electric SUV, named EO. The EO will be available in both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations, marking a significant step for the company in China's rapidly evolving new energy vehicle (NEV) market.
The EO is not Hyundai's first electric vehicle model, as they do not currently have any electric vehicle models available for sale. However, the launch of the EO will fill the gap that Hyundai currently has in terms of electric vehicle offerings.
The competition in the price range of the EO is fierce, making it challenging for the vehicle to stand out in China's highly competitive NEV market. The main competition for the EO comes from leading Chinese electric SUV brands such as NIO, Xpeng, BYD, and Li Auto, as well as global manufacturers targeting the premium and mass-market segments. Hyundai aims to differentiate itself by focusing on brand strength rather than engaging in price wars common in China’s NEV market.
The EO features a combined output of 233 kW (312 hp). It has a shortened front overhang and an extended wheelbase of 2,750 mm, paired with 20-inch wheels. The interior of the EO has been revealed, with a launch set for Q3. The EO's design features daytime running lights inspired by the concept of lucky crystals, incorporating the number "8" into the light's shape.
The EO will be equipped with "Haomo.ai" automatic driving assistance, offering L2+ level support for an assisted driving experience. It will utilize a lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) battery supplied by FinDreams, a subsidiary of BYD, with an estimated range of up to 700 km under CLTC conditions. The EO was previously known as Elexio.
The EO measures 4,615 mm in length, 1,875 mm in width, and 1,675 mm (or 1,698 mm with roof rails) in height. It has been benchmarked against the Xiaomi SU7 at Hyundai's R&D centers in Korea. The target price points for these models will be between 100,000 and 300,000 yuan (14,000 and 42,000 USD).
Beijing Hyundai aims to release more than five pure electric models over the next three years. The launch of the EO marks the start of Beijing Hyundai's "Year of New Energy." The EO is estimated to be priced at 150,000 yuan (20,000 USD), making it an affordable option for many consumers in China's NEV market. The EO is set to be released in the Chinese market in September 2025.
- In partnership with BYD, FinDreams supplies the lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) battery for Beijing Hyundai's EO electric SUV.
- The competitive landscape in China's NEV market includes global automotive giants offering electric SUVs, such as Hyundai, alongside native brands like NIO, Xpeng, BYD, and Li Auto.
- As part of its 3-year plan, Beijing Hyundai intends to release over five pure electric models, starting with the EO launch in 2025.
- The interior design of the EO includes a unique daytime running light inspired by the lucky crystal concept and an "8" shape, aimed at enhancing the lifestyle experience for drivers.
