Hyundai presents two prototypes from the IONIQ range exclusively for the Chinese market

Following its success in other markets, Hyundai is set to introduce its IONIQ range of electric vehicles to China for the first time, and to this end, has just unveiled two prototypes developed exclusively for this country. The timing of the presentation of these two new prototypes is no coincidence either, as it takes place just days before the start of the 2026 Auto China show, where they will be on display.

These two prototypes are the Venus Concept saloon and the Earth Concept SUV, and both offer a preview of the future design direction and strategy of the IONIQ range in the Asian giant. With them, Hyundai aims to strengthen its presence in a market where it has so far struggled to stand out in the electric segment.

Until last year, the South Korean brand had only launched one fully electric model developed for China: the EO, built on the E-GMP platform but sold independently with no connection to the IONIQ range. From now on, however, the brand will align its electric model offering in the Chinese market as part of the IONIQ range, with the aim of delivering a much more comprehensive mobility experience.

Planet names instead of numbers

One of the most interesting changes Hyundai will implement in the Chinese market is the naming convention, compared with what we know, for example, in Europe. Instead of following the formula of adding a number to the IONIQ sub-brand name for each model, in the Chinese market the South Korean manufacturer will adopt planet names. Venus and Earth are the first examples. This new strategy seeks to convey that each vehicle revolves around the customer, who becomes the centre of the new IONIQ Universe.

The two prototypes presented now retain the distinctive angular design language of the IONIQ family. The Venus features a striking “Radiant Gold” colour inspired by the beauty of the brightest planet, with an enveloping interior and ambient lighting that creates a luminous atmosphere. The Earth Concept, for its part, evokes the vitality and natural balance of our planet.

Although no technical specifications or details of the battery packs fitted to them have yet been revealed, these models are expected to be fully electric and, like the EO, use LFP cells supplied by local Chinese suppliers instead of the batteries used in other markets.

“Building on the two concepts presented today, we will continue to offer products that demonstrate a deep understanding of Chinese customers and our genuine commitment to this market. Based on the strict safety and quality standards of the IONIQ range, we will soon launch production models that combine the intelligent driving experiences that Chinese consumers demand.”