Electric cars have a place in our modern world, especially for short-range drives to and from the office. Charging overnight or weekly as the vehicle’s electric battery system power drains down works well in city driving demands.
My test drive this week features a new Hyundai model promoted as a longer-range electric vehicle, boasting an estimated range of 270 miles on a full charge. However, my experience with this vehicle, as well as other electric vehicles, indicates that they tend to deplete power faster than specified, particularly when driving in mountainous areas while using air conditioning or heat during the colder months.
Because of the Ioniq recharging system, for a 160 round-trip to Black Hawk: 140 going up the hill and 90 coming down, exceeding the 270-mile range.
Like other new models, there are three modes: eco, normal, and sport. While climbing the mountains, I used a combination of normal and sport modes, and just the eco mode while coming downhill. A button on the steering wheel instantly changed the power surge, with both normal and sport modes offering a powerful drive. The key point is that when a driver takes an electric vehicle on longer drives that may include mountain roads, they should be cautious of the mileage estimates.
The Ioniq 6 is a beautiful car, reminiscent of a young filly eager to run in the horse pasture. The vehicle feels warm and friendly, producing a humming sound that alerts the driver to its speed and gear range. Initially annoying, this sound soon became pleasant and useful for matching the power range to the humming sound- less hum, more mileage.
The exterior of the Ioniq was serenity white paint and a gray interior. The dash and instrument panel are very wide with a photo of the power plant system. The vehicle rides on 20” alloy wheels with a wide sunroof, active grill shutters and all-around LED lighting. Every safety feature is available, including the blind spot view monitor and 360 view panel of the surrounding area, a nice feature for backing out of tight parking spaces.
This is such a friendly car. When approaching with the digital key, the door handles pop open. A Bose sound system adds to the enjoyment. Several of the drive controls are built into the heated steering wheel. Driving an electric car differs slightly from gas models with instant acceleration and deceleration.
The Ioniq 6 comes with Hyundai’s record 10-year/100,000power train warranty. The vehicle is assembled in Ulsan, Korea. The price on the test model was $56,330, with the only additional optional charge for Serenity paint, $470, and carpeted floor mats, $210.
This is a very attractive model that drives well in all respects, as powerful as any high-end sports car in performance, but does need continual charging for any long-range drives, even with the 270-mile capacity. Charging time is estimated to be 7.5 hours on special charging outlets.
This is a luxury brand that can be used for short distances or longer drives. It won’t disappoint in performance and appearance.