- Hyundai Motor officially launches its all-electric IONIQ range in China, signaling renewed commitment to the NEV market
- Two new design concepts foreshadow the future direction of the IONIQ brand ahead of Auto China 2026
- The VENUS Concept sedan and the EARTH Concept family SUV debut as two “planets” in a new model “universe”
BEIJING and SEOUL, South Korea, April 10, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Hyundai Motor Company has officially launched its all-electric IONIQ lineup in China, unveiling two concept cars at the show IONIQ Brand Launch Event in Beijing before Automotive China 2026 (“Beijing Auto Show”) on April 24.
Alongside the concepts, Hyundai Motor presented a strategy aimed at strengthen its position on the Chinese marketexpanding the IONIQ brand range beyond products into a mobility experience.
The two 100% electric concept cars developed for China — the VENUS Conceptan avant-garde sedan, and the EARTH Concepta reliable family SUV, marks the start of this new chapter. Both concepts highlight Hyundai Motor’s preparation for China’s new energy vehicle (NEV) market.
“Starting with the two concept cars revealed today, we will continue to introduce products that reflect a deep understanding of Chinese customers and our true commitment to this market. Built on IONIQ’s uncompromising principles of safety and world-class quality, we will soon introduce production models that seamlessly combine the smart driving and smart cabin experiences that Chinese consumers demand. – Li Fenggang, chairman of Beijing Hyundai Motor Company
What is IONIQ and how will the brand be adapted for China?
As the dedicated brand for Hyundai Motor’s range of fully electric vehicles, IONIQ has quickly become a global benchmark for innovation, design and quality. Built on critically acclaimed models such as the IONIQ5, IONIQ6 And IONIQ9the EV range reflects Hyundai Motor’s advanced electrification capabilities and its vision of human-centric mobility.
IONIQ’s global excellence is further highlighted by multiple industry recognitions, including “treble” wins for the IONIQ 5 and IONIQ 6 at the World Car Awards. High-performance models like the IONIQ 5N And IONIQ 6N have also strengthened the brand’s leadership in electrical performance, with Most recently named IONIQ 6 N 2026 Global Performance Car.
In China, IONIQ will evolve beyond a simple product line into a broader mobility ecosystem tailored to local customers. While maintaining Hyundai Motor’s proven safety and quality standards, IONIQ is being redefined with localized technologies, services and user experiences for China’s rapidly evolving NEV market.
As part of this strategy, Hyundai Motor is introducing a unique naming convention tailored to China. Future IONIQ models will be named “planets”, symbolizing how each vehicle revolves around the customer – the central point of this new IONIQ universe.
Which two IONIQ concept cars are intended for the Chinese market?
THE VENUS And EARTH These concepts are the first tangible results of Hyundai Motor’s new strategy in China, serving as a design “barometer” for future IONIQ production models. Guided by the ethosLead, don’t follow‘, both concepts have unique characteristics single curve silhouettes that are instantly recognizable and emotionally distinctive, providing a lasting and impactful first impression.
VENUS (iconic sedan): Inspired by the timeless beauty of the brightest planet, VENUS presents a new icon for sedans.
- Outside: Finished in striking “Radiant Gold” that captures a tale of breakthrough, exploration and glory, its high-tech exterior includes a lightweight frame-structure roof and transparent spoiler. A unique single-curved silhouette further defines its distinctive profile, creating an elegant and characterful design identity.
- Interior: The driver-focused wraparound cockpit evokes the luminous atmosphere of Venus with layered ambient lighting. A strong material contrast between soft suede and solid chrome-gold backrest covers enhances the premium feel, while a friendly “Lumi” character is integrated into the design for a playful connection between driver and vehicle.
LAND (Powerful SUV): Embodying the vitality and biological balance of our home planet, EARTH is a bold and powerful family SUV.
- Outside: Finished in ‘Aurora Shield’, the balance of sharp edges and sculpted volumes creates a futuristic image, alongside robust details such as EARTH’s skid plates and exposed bolt accents.
- Interior: The interior is a comfortable “small Earth”, equipped with innovative “ventilated” seats made of soft air modules. Serene mood lighting that mimics tree shadows and clever ‘shy’ elements create a calm, breathing space, while a fun ‘Aero’ character and hidden Beijing map designs provide a sense of discovery.
“We chose to be “The Origin”. Something entirely new — recognizable at a glance from afar, with a powerful presence on the road and delivering what we call a “Best in First Impression.” “The Origin” is our declaration: “Lead, don’t follow.” This is the starting point of our movement. Our ambition is to chart a new direction. » – Simon Loasby, Senior Vice President and Head of Hyundai Design Center at Hyundai Motor Company
How is Hyundai Motor redefining its approach to the Chinese market?
At the event, Hyundai Motor also previewed the exclusive IONIQ technologies tailored for Chinese customers. Key advancements include the introduction of autonomous driving systems developed with local partners and the adoption of market-specific solutions, such as extended-range electric vehicles (EREV). These technologies reflect Hyundai Motor’s commitment to returning to the market with a truly human-centered philosophy, prioritizing tangible benefits that meet the real needs of Chinese consumers..
To support this vision, Hyundai Motor also released a IONIQ brand launch film under the message “Open Your Universe,” further illustrating the brand’s direction.
Further details will be revealed at Hyundai Motor Press Conference at Auto China 2026 on April 24has Hall E4 of the China International Exhibition Center (Shunyi Hall) in Beijing.
More information about Hyundai Motor and its products can be found at https://www.hyundai.com/worldwide/en/
SOURCE Hyundai Automobile Company
