In a monumental achievement for the electric vehicle (EV) industry, Hyundai’s IONIQ 5 has secured its place in history, claiming a Guinness World Record for the greatest altitude change ever achieved by an electric vehicle. This remarkable feat underscores the SUV’s cutting-edge capabilities, pushing the boundaries of electric mobility. On December 26, 2024, Hyundai proudly announced that the IONIQ 5 had surpassed expectations, setting an unprecedented benchmark for the automotive world.
The Journey to History: Overcoming Extreme Conditions
The IONIQ 5’s incredible journey took it to Umling La, situated in the rugged Leh Ladakh region, renowned as the highest driveable road in the world. Positioned at an extraordinary 19,025 feet (5,799 meters) above sea level, the SUV embarked on a grueling test that would push it to its limits. Hyundai’s pursuit of this world record was not only about achieving altitude but also about demonstrating the resilience and technological prowess of their electric vehicle in the most harsh and challenging environments.
This journey was organized by Hyundai Motor India in partnership with Evo India, a prominent automotive magazine. Together, they sought to test the IONIQ 5’s performance under extreme conditions, spanning vast distances and encountering diverse terrains. The electric SUV would need to overcome treacherous mountain passes, freezing temperatures, and unpredictable weather patterns to emerge victorious.
The Record-Breaking Achievement: 19,035 Feet of Altitude
The Hyundai IONIQ 5’s journey wasn’t merely about navigating treacherous roads—it was about the magnitude of the altitude change it could conquer. Over the course of 14 days, the electric SUV traveled an astonishing 3,080 miles (4,956 kilometers). Along the way, the IONIQ 5 ascended and descended a staggering 19,035 feet (5,802 meters) in altitude, officially securing the Guinness World Record for the greatest altitude change by an electric vehicle.
This remarkable achievement not only speaks to the engineering excellence embedded in the IONIQ 5 but also highlights its adaptability in the face of extreme conditions. From the freezing temperatures of the Himalayan mountains to the humid coastal regions of Kerala, Hyundai’s flagship electric SUV demonstrated unwavering reliability and performance.
Technological Marvel: A Testament to Hyundai’s Innovation
Hyundai’s IONIQ 5 is a testament to the company’s unwavering commitment to sustainability and technological innovation. The record-breaking event showcased the technological prowess of Hyundai’s electric platform. As Unsoo Kim, Managing Director of Hyundai Motor India, proudly stated, the SUV’s remarkable performance “proven under such extreme conditions, reflects Hyundai Motor Company’s technological excellence.” This achievement highlights Hyundai’s continuous drive to set new standards in the automotive industry, blending cutting-edge design, advanced engineering, and environmentally conscious technology.
The IONIQ 5’s success in such a demanding environment is a direct result of Hyundai’s dedication to creating vehicles that can not only endure the toughest climates but also push the limits of what electric mobility can achieve. The SUV’s powertrain, battery technology, and overall performance were specifically engineered to meet the demands of the most challenging landscapes.
Power and Range: Unmatched Performance
The 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5 continues to push the boundaries of what an electric vehicle can offer. Powered by a 72.6 kWh battery, the IONIQ 5 boasts an EPA-estimated range of over 300 miles (481 kilometers) on a full charge. But the real story lies in the vehicle’s adaptability to extreme conditions, proving that electric vehicles can go the distance, no matter the environment.
As Hyundai gears up for the release of its 2025 IONIQ 5 models, the company continues to evolve its electric offerings. A key upgrade for the 2025 model is an increase in driving range, thanks to a more powerful 84 kWh battery. This enhancement extends the vehicle’s range to 318 miles, an improvement over the previous 303 miles. These upgrades are a reflection of Hyundai’s commitment to ensuring that their electric vehicles remain competitive and capable of meeting the ever-growing demands of the global market.
The 2025 IONIQ 5: A New Chapter
The 2025 IONIQ 5 also comes with a fresh new design, a step forward in both aesthetic appeal and functional performance. Among the most exciting features is the NACS (North American Charging Standard) charging port, which allows the vehicle to take advantage of Tesla’s Supercharger network. This addition is a game-changer, significantly improving charging accessibility and convenience for IONIQ 5 owners.
With a broader range of trim levels, the 2025 model offers options to suit various driving needs. For instance, the IONIQ 5 SE RWD comes with a 168-horsepower rear motor, while the more powerful IONIQ 5 Limited RWD features a 225-horsepower rear motor. Additionally, the Dual Motor AWD versions offer a 320-horsepower dual motor, providing enhanced performance and driving dynamics.
Pricing and Availability: A Glimpse into the Future
The 2025 IONIQ 5 starts at an affordable $42,500 for the SE RWD Standard Range model. However, depending on the trim level and options selected, prices can escalate up to $58,100 for the IONIQ 5 Limited Dual Motor AWD. With these new features and the increased driving range, Hyundai is positioning the IONIQ 5 as a top-tier contender in the EV market.
As part of its broader strategy to expand into new segments, Hyundai is also introducing its first three-row electric SUV, the IONIQ 9. This new addition to the lineup is expected to challenge established competitors like the Rivian R1S with its combination of powerful performance and spacious interior. Powered by a 110.2 kWh battery, the IONIQ 9 boasts an impressive range of 335 miles (620 kilometers) on the WLTP cycle, making it one of the most capable three-row electric SUVs on the market.
The IONIQ 9 will be manufactured at Hyundai’s state-of-the-art plant in Georgia, alongside the 2025 IONIQ 5. With production ramping up, the IONIQ 9 is expected to be available in the US and Korea by the first half of 2025, with a subsequent launch in Europe and other global markets.
Final Thoughts: The Future of Hyundai’s Electric Revolution
Hyundai’s relentless pursuit of innovation has propelled the company to the forefront of the global electric vehicle revolution. The IONIQ 5’s recent world record not only highlights Hyundai’s technological advancements but also signals the company’s unwavering commitment to the future of sustainable mobility.
With the 2025 models pushing the limits of performance, range, and design, Hyundai is well on its way to solidifying its place as a leader in the EV market. As the IONIQ 9 enters the scene and additional advancements are made, Hyundai’s vision for a cleaner, greener, and more connected world continues to unfold.
2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5 Pricing and Trim Details
Here is a breakdown of the 2025 IONIQ 5 models, highlighting their key features and pricing:
| Trim Level | EV Powertrain | Driving Range (miles) | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| IONIQ 5 SE RWD Standard Range | 168-horsepower rear motor | 245 | $42,500 |
| IONIQ 5 SE RWD | 225-horsepower rear motor | 318 | $46,550 |
| IONIQ 5 SEL RWD | 225-horsepower rear motor | 318 | $49,500 |
| IONIQ 5 Limited RWD | 225-horsepower rear motor | 318 | $54,200 |
| IONIQ 5 SE Dual Motor AWD | 320-horsepower dual motor | 290 | $50,050 |
| IONIQ 5 SEL Dual Motor AWD | 320-horsepower dual motor | 290 | $53,000 |
| IONIQ 5 XRT Dual Motor AWD | 320-horsepower dual motor | 259 | $55,400 |
| IONIQ 5 Limited Dual Motor AWD | 320-horsepower dual motor | 269 | $58,100 |
In conclusion, Hyundai’s IONIQ 5 has set a new benchmark not only for electric vehicles but for the entire automotive industry. As Hyundai continues to innovate and redefine the possibilities of electric mobility, the future looks brighter than ever for sustainable and performance-driven vehicles.
