Following the launch of the Ioniq in three versions – Hybrid, PHEV and EV, the Ioniq family could expand with the addition of a second EV version with nearly twice the driving range.

Set to target the likes of the Tesla Model 3 and Chevrolet Bolt, both of which have more than 200 miles (322 km) of electric range, the upcoming model is believed to offer at least 200 miles per charge, once it will become available, in 2018, as Autonews reports.

124 (miles of range) is not enough“, said director of the brand’s eco-vehicle performance group, Ahn Byung-ki, referring to the EV model that will launch early next year, adding that the automaker has “a plan to extend that to more than 200 (miles of range) by 2018“, when he spoke on the topic at a media event, last week.

At the moment, Hyundai’s offering in the electric segment has a 28 kWh lithium-ion polymer battery, made by LG and located beneath the rear seats, which powers the 120 HP (122 PS) and 215 lb-ft (292 Nm) of torque electric motor. It can be recharged up to 80 percent in 20 minutes with a fast charger and the maximum estimated driving range sits at 110 miles (177 km).

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