Hyundai plans to debut a fresh electric vehicle in the B-car category in the year 2026.
Hyundai Motor Company has announced its intentions to launch a new B-segment electric car in Europe in 2026. This model, which will be positioned above the recently launched Hyundai INSTER, will be designed, engineered, and built entirely in Europe to closely meet European customer expectations.
The new electric vehicle is set to debut as a fresh concept at the Munich Motor Show in September 2025. While the exact body style is yet to be confirmed, it may take the form of a conventional hatchback, competing with models like the Renault 5 and Vauxhall Corsa Electric, or a high-riding SUV, challenging vehicles such as the Renault 4 and Kia EV3. It is also possible that the new model will use a different badge to distinguish it from the existing Ioniq range, or it may wear the Ioniq name, such as Ioniq 2.
The new B-segment model will be based on Hyundai Motor Group's highly adaptable E-GMP (Electric-Global Modular Platform). This versatile platform is already used on several models, including the Kia EV3, which won Electrifying.com's Car of the Year 2025.
In addition to its advanced platform, the new car will debut Hyundai's new end-to-end operating system called "Pleos", signaling a focus on smart and advanced in-car technology tailored to European users.
Xavier Martinet, President and CEO of Hyundai Motor Europe, stated that the new car is a key part of their strategy to perform in the B-segment. He expressed that Hyundai aims to offer a product tailored to European customer expectations, reinforcing Hyundai’s strategic commitment to this key market segment where they see significant opportunities.
Martinet emphasized a "design in Europe, build in Europe, and sell in Europe" approach to ensure the car truly connects with European customers. This strategy underscores Hyundai Motor Europe's vision to design, build, and sell cars in Europe to create products that connect with customers.
The precise specifications and details about the new car, such as its final name and specific competitors, are not yet clear. However, with its European focus and cutting-edge technology, the new B-segment electric car from Hyundai is poised to make a significant impact in the European automotive market. The exact details and design features might be previewed by the concept car at the Munich Motor Show in September 2025.
- The new electric vehicle from Hyundai Motor Company, set to debut in 2025, will be based on the versatile E-GMP platform, also used by models like the award-winning Kia EV3.
- Hyundai's upcoming B-segment electric car, due in 2026, will be designed, engineered, and built entirely in Europe, entailing a focus on meeting European customer expectations.
- Hyundai Motor Europe's strategy for the new B-segment car includes a strong emphasis on smart in-car technology, showcasing their new operating system, "Pleos".
- Xavier Martinet, President and CEO of Hyundai Motor Europe, expressed that the new car is a crucial component of their plan to excel in the B-segment, targeting European customers with a car tailored to their lifestyle and preferences.
