Hyundai has officially released its ground-breaking IONIQ range of alternative-fuel cars for sale during a recent global launch in Amsterdam, Netherlands.

The IONIQ is the first Hyundai platform to be purpose-built for alternative-fuel drivetrains, and represents Hyundai’s flexible approach to moving its products towards zero-emissions technology, said a statement from the company.

Instead of offering just one power source, the Korean carmaker is giving buyers a choice of three proven technologies within a single vehicle architecture: the IONIQ Hybrid, IONIQ Plug-in, and IONIQ Electric, it said.

Each alternative offers low emissions, and will also be comfortable and offer sporty performance and be fun to drive, it added.

With demand expected to exceed the initial supply, Hyundai hopes to begin shipments to the GCC by the end of 2016, starting with Hybrid and Electric versions, said a statement.

Hyundai expects Hybrid models will account for the bulk of sales when the car arrives in the GCC, it stated.

The full hybrid version features a 1.6 litre direct injection petrol engine with a 32 kW electric motor, the two offering a combined 103.6 kW of power and 265 Nm of torque, with a top speed of 185 km/h. The IONIQ Electric has less power at 88 kW, but more torque at 295 Nm, and an estimated maximum range of around 250 km on a full charge, it said.

Mike Song, head of operations, Hyundai - Middle East and Africa (MEA), said: “There is a growing demand for cars that can minimise our environmental impact, and most of us within the industry are aware that electric power is the future, but it is clear that different buyers and markets have very different needs.”

“For example, range anxiety with electric cars remains an issue for some buyers, particularly those whose driving includes long distances in fairly remote areas. By offering options to fit every circumstance, IONIQ will play an essential role in taking electric power mainstream, offering a practical stepping stone towards ever-more advanced technology in the next few years,” he added. – TradeArabia News Service