Hyundai Ioniq V: China-built EV set to open for pre-orders at Chengdu Motor Show on August 21

Hyundai has confirmed that its new electric fastback, the Ioniq V, will open for pre-orders at the 2026 Chengdu Motor Show on August 21, ahead of its launch in September.

The new model is not just another EV for Hyundai. Developed specifically for the Chinese market, it marks a shift in how the Korean automaker is approaching one of the world's most competitive electric-car markets.

Korea meets China: Will the Ioniq V work?

Unlike Hyundai's usual approach of bringing global models to China, the Ioniq V was designed specifically for the local market by Hyundai's China design centre.

The new model takes the form of a low-slung fastback, with a wide stance and low roofline giving it a sporty look.

Details include frameless doors, V-shaped wheels and distinctive "Dimensional Star Trail" taillights, giving the Ioniq V a more youthful and tech-focused character.

The Ioniq V measures 4,900 mm long, 1,890 mm wide and 1,470 mm tall, with a 2,900 mm wheelbase. Kerb weight ranges from 1,707 kg to 1,808 kg, depending on the variant.

Chengdu Motor Show debut

The Chengdu Motor Show will provide the stage for the Ioniq V's debut. As one of China's major motor shows, it joins the events in Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou as a key fixture on the country's automotive calendar.

This year's show will bring together more than 1,600 models from 120 brands across 220,000 square metres of exhibition space. With the Ioniq V making its debut there, the new model is set to attract plenty of attention from both the industry and potential buyers.

800V charging and two powertrain options

The Ioniq V is built on Hyundai Motor Group's E-GMP electric vehicle platform, with an efficient electric powertrain and support for 800V fast charging.

A range-extender version is also expected to join the line-up alongside the fully electric model, giving buyers more choice depending on how they use the car.

Two main EV variants are currently offered.

The entry-level model uses a 53.5 kWh CATL LFP battery and a 140 kW (188 hp) motor, with a claimed CLTC range of 520–540 km.

The long-range version gets a larger 66.8 kWh battery and a 168 kW (225 hp) motor, with a claimed range of 620–650 km.

On the technology front, the Ioniq V comes with Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8295 chip, two AI large language models and a Momenta L2+ driver assistance system.

Conclusion

The Ioniq V marks an important shift in Hyundai's approach to the Chinese market, moving away from a more conservative strategy towards a model designed around local tastes, technology and differentiation.

The Ioniq V is currently aimed at China and Hyundai has no plans to export it for now. Even so, the model offers a glimpse of how Hyundai could combine its E-GMP platform with locally developed technology as it looks to adapt its products for different markets.