Korea Central News Net

Tag: EV

  • Hyundai Motor launches the 2026 ST1 in Korea

    Hyundai Motor 2026 ST1 (Cargo) | Photo provided by Hyundai Motor

    Hyundai Motor launched the updated 2026 ST1 on July 16, enhancing the electric business platform’s features and introducing a new budget trim.

    The ST1, first released last year, is equipped with a 76.1 kWh battery, offering a driving range of 317 km for the Cargo model and 298 km for the Cargo Freezer version on a single charge. It supports ultra-fast charging at up to 350kW, allowing it to charge from 10% to 80% in just 20 minutes.

    Reflecting feedback from existing customers, Hyundai added several convenience features to the Smart trim of the 2026 ST1, including a sun visor mirror for the first row, a passenger-side assist handle, and a floor mat for the passenger seat. The company also enhanced the existing ‘Convenience’ package by adding heated and ventilated seats for the passenger side.

    To reduce the financial burden on customers, Hyundai introduced a new budget ‘Style’ trim for the ST1 Cargo model.

    Despite being priced 1.06 million KRW lower than the Smart trim, the Style trim includes popular features such as a 12.3-inch cluster display, 10.25-inch navigation system, electronic parking brake with auto hold, front and rear parking sensors, and an interior V2L (Vehicle-to-Load) system, ensuring a comfortable driving environment.

    The ST1 comes equipped with an infotainment system based on the Android operating system, offering scalability to tailor work environments to user needs.

    Hyundai has also newly integrated the logistics app “Sendy” into the 2026 ST1 to further improve business convenience.

    Sendy’s driver program uses AI technology to minimize empty vehicle mileage and optimize delivery routes, helping users enhance both work efficiency and profitability.

    The 2026 ST1 is priced as follows (before eco-friendly vehicle subsidies):


    Cargo–Style: 58.74 million KRW / Smart: 60.4 million KRW / Premium: 64.18 million KRW


    Cargo Freezer – Smart: 68.75 million KRW / Premium: 72.53 million KRW

    
Chassis Cab – Smart: 56.55 million KRW
High-top – Smart: 58 million KRW.

    Based on the Style trim for the Cargo model, customers in Korea can expect to receive government and municipal subsidies ranging from at least 15.1 million to as much as 24.57 million KRW, in addition to 3.6 million KRW in support for small business owners and 5.34 million KRW in VAT refunds for commercial vehicles. While varying by regions, these benefits are expected to significantly reduce the actual purchase cost.

    To mark the launch of the 2026 ST1, Hyundai is holding a special promotion offering a discount of 500,000 KRW for owners of small commercial vehicles and 300,000 KRW for owners of other old cars that are over seven years old.

    Hyundai stated that the ST1, as an electric business platform, continues to earn positive reviews for its advanced features and competitive total cost of ownership. The company added that the improved 2026 ST1, developed with close attention to customer feedback, is expected to enhance operational efficiency for its users further.

  • Hyundai unveils IONIQ 6 N, redefining high-performance electrification

    Hyundai Motor Company IONIQ 6 N | Photo provided by Hyundai Motor Company

    Hyundai Motor’s high-performance brand N unveiled the IONIQ 6 N for the first time globally on Thursday, July 10, at the 2025 Goodwood Festival of Speed, the UK’s largest automotive event.

    The IONIQ 6 N combines Hyundai’s cutting-edge electrification technologies with data from its “rolling lab”—a testbed for motorsports performance. Designed to satisfy both track and daily driving, this is Hyundai N’s second high-performance electric vehicle (EV).

    Built on N’s three core performance pillars—Corner Rascal, Racetrack Capability, and Everyday Sports Car—the IONIQ 6 N brings the joy of high-performance driving into the electrified era.

    The IONIQ 6 N delivers a combined output of 478kW (650PS) and 770Nm of torque through a dual-motor AWD system and an 84.0kWh high-capacity battery, with next-gen suspension geometry for agile handling and excellent control.

    After its debut in PURE ETCR (Electric Touring Car Racing), Hyundai N has continued developing EVs that excel on both the racetrack and everyday roads. The IONIQ 6 N marks a new benchmark in this evolution.

    “Through the IONIQ 6 N, Hyundai N will deliver an electrifying driving experience based on high-performance EV powertrains for both daily use and the track,” said José Muñoz, President and Global COO of Hyundai Motor Company.

    Blistering performance meets precise handling.

    With launch control activated, the IONIQ 6 N accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.2 seconds. Under standard conditions, it produces 448kW (609PS) and 740Nm of torque, which boosts to 478kW and 770Nm when using the N Grin Boost (NGB) function.

    The N Battery system optimizes temperature and power output via three modes: Drag, Sprint, and Endurance. These help deliver peak performance in varied track conditions.

    Its streamlined sedan profile gives it a lower drag coefficient (Cd 0.27) and center of gravity than the IONIQ 5 N, improving high-speed handling and stability. The addition of a large rear wing spoiler, aerodynamic components like active grille flaps, front splitters, and underbody diffusers, all work together to enhance downforce and airflow.

    With 20-inch forged wheels and 275/35R20 tires co-developed with Pirelli, the IONIQ 6 N offers maximum grip. A widened fender design and a new exclusive color, Performance Blue Pearl, convey a bold, dynamic presence.

    Enhanced suspension and body rigidity

    The IONIQ 6 N features next-generation suspension geometry and stroke-sensitive ECS dampers. Adjustments such as a lower roll center, increased front caster trail, and stiffer rear springs contribute to precise, stable cornering at high speeds.

    Chassis reinforcements and front hydro G bushings improve structural response, while dual-layer bushings in the rear enhance ride comfort. The overall result is a highly responsive and comfortable performance sedan.

    “The IONIQ 6 N is a new standard in automotive engineering—combining raw power, smart battery management, aerodynamic efficiency, and advanced suspension,” said Manfred Harrer, Executive VP of Vehicle Development at Hyundai Motor.

    Next-gen EV driving experiences

    The IONIQ 6 N includes several high-performance driving enhancements: N e-Shift, N Ambient Shift Light, and N Active Sound+.

    N e-Shift simulates gear shifting for a more connected, sporty experience, while the ambient light system cues drivers on optimal shifting points. N Active Sound+ produces immersive synthetic engine noises with multi-channel sound control and new effects like Lightspeed and NGB audio.

    Track-ready features include N Drift Optimizer, N Torque Distribution (adjustable across 11 levels), N Pedal for regenerative cornering, and N Track Manager with track map recording and lap timing. Custom TPMS settings, built-in dashcam overlays (N Race Cam), and a roof-mounted action cam holder support content creation and post-run analysis.

    Debut at the 2025 Goodwood Festival of Speed

    The IONIQ 6 N made its public debut on the iconic Hillclimb course at Goodwood, alongside its Drift Spec variant and models outfitted with N Performance Parts.

    Hyundai also showcased the IONIQ 5 N and IONIQ 5 N TA Spec at its dedicated display area, giving visitors a hands-on look at the brand’s high-performance electric lineup.

    In Korea, the IONIQ 6 N will be exhibited at Lotte Premium Outlet in Uiwang, Gyeonggi Province, from July 12 to 20, alongside other IONIQ 6 models to promote the full lineup to domestic customers.

  • SUNVOLT launches ‘Green Eco Cart’ platform, reshaping Korea’s used golf cart market with new lithium battery innovation

    Electric mobility specialist SUNVOLT has officially launched “Green Eco Cart,” a pioneering online platform specializing in used golf carts, signaling a bold new chapter for Korea’s secondary golf cart market. Far from being a typical reseller site, Green Eco Cart offers refurbished carts equipped with SUNVOLT’s proprietary high-performance lithium batteries, providing near-new functionality and significantly reduced maintenance burdens.

    The platform delivers a comprehensive one-stop solution for used golf cart transactions, including sales, rentals, and after-sales service. At the heart of this platform is SUNVOLT’s advanced lithium battery technology, which transforms used carts into high-efficiency, high-reliability vehicles suitable for golf courses and theme parks previously deterred by the high cost of new electric carts.

    Green Eco Cart focuses on models such as Yamaha and A-Pros, both widely recognized for their reliability. These carts undergo rigorous inspection and refurbishment by SUNVOLT’s engineering team, ensuring optimal performance. Particularly, the Yamaha carts are directly imported from Japan, where terrain and meticulous maintenance yield a supply of top-grade secondhand carts. Thanks to a strategic partnership with Japan’s largest used golf cart supplier, SUNVOLT ensures a stable supply pipeline.

    The standout feature of Green Eco Cart is the integration of SUNVOLT’s next-generation lithium battery system. Utilizing top-tier battery cells from global leaders like Samsung SDI and CATL, these batteries boast exceptional efficiency and safety. With a maximum capacity of 72V and 170Ah, a single charge can easily power three full 18-hole rounds, even when using peripherals such as air conditioners and heaters.

    Enhanced safety is achieved through a world-class battery management system (BMS) and an active fire suppression mechanism. The batteries also offer exceptional durability, with a lifespan of over 10 years or 5,000 charge cycles. This robust power system overcomes the shortcomings of traditional lead-acid batteries, such as frequent replacements, performance drops, and complex maintenance, delivering a level of convenience and economy akin to new carts.

    SUNVOLT’s golf carts have already demonstrated exceptional performance on Korea’s rugged golf course terrains, earning high praise from domestic clubs. The company has also made inroads into the Japanese market, offering free after-sales service and comprehensive pre-delivery quality inspections and test drives.

    The Green Eco Cart platform, SUNVOLT emphasizes, is not simply about offering affordable secondhand carts—it’s about delivering “like-new” performance and eco-friendliness through new lithium battery integration. This innovation opens a new frontier in the used golf cart sector.

    To further build customer trust, SUNVOLT backs its products with strict quality inspections, one year of free A/S, and nationwide support through directly operated stores. More information is available at www.ecocart.co.kr, with customer service and consultation also available by phone.

    Founded in 2008, SUNVOLT has grown into one of Korea’s leading electric mobility manufacturers, producing a wide range of electric vehicles for industrial, leisure, and specialized purposes. The company now supplies to major Korean conglomerates and public institutions, while also exporting to over 10 countries. Its portfolio includes electric buses, ATVs, utility carts, and industrial logistics vehicles, all designed and manufactured in-house.