Due to be launched this summer, the Ioniq is the first car to be available with a choice of alternative drivetrains and no conventional petrol or diesel version. It shares its all-new platform with the Kia Niro, a hybrid crossover also due to launch this year.

The Ioniq Hybrid uses a 1.6-litre petrol engine and 44bhp electric motor, producing a combined 139bhp through a six-speed dual-clutch transmission, and the latter can power the car at speeds of up to 68mph. Fuel economy has not been confirmed yet, but the Niro is targeting CO2 emissions of less than 90g/km and the Ioniq is likely to be even more frugal due to its shape.

It features one of the most aerodynamic bodies in production, matching the Tesla Model S, with widespread use of ultra-high strength steels for a weight-optimised construction. Drivers will be able to access comprehensive hybrid displays through the seven-inch TFT screen in the cabin, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone streaming will be included too.

Moon-Sik Kwon, vice chairman at Hyundai Motor R&D Centre. “IONIQ has been developed incorporating all of our technological capacities. The hybrid, pursuing the highest efficiency in its class, is economically efficient and stays true to the fundamentals of a car by delivering fun to drive through a modern design and dynamic driving performance.”