Is Hyundai finally about to launch the little IONIQ 3 EV we've been waiting for? Hyundai's mysterious 'OE' car, which appears to be the sibling of the IONIQ 5, has made another appearance. Here's what we know about the new EV.
When will Hyundai launch IONIQ 3?
Hyundai has been at the forefront, introducing new electric models in key global markets, including the US, Europe, China, and others.
After a new Hyundai EV model badged with the code name “OE” resurfaced, local reports suggest it could be the IONIQ 3. Hyundai has given previous electric models, such as the IONIQ 5 and IONIQ 6, code names, including “CE ” as well as.”
The most recent model to get the codename is the IONIQ 9 three-row SUV, which was unveiled at the LA Auto Show last month. The model code for Hyundai's large electric SUV was “ME” before it officially launched.
After several photos of the new “OE” model surfaced online, Hyundai’s Chinese joint venture, Beijing Hyundai, appeared to confirm the new EV through a local regulatory portal.
Screenshots from Autospy revealed the codename “OE1C” again, confirming that it will be an electric SUV. Hyundai's new EV will be launched in 2026. Another “EA1C” model is also listed.
In accordance with TheKoreanCarBlogLocal rumors suggest that the new EV could eventually be the IONIQ 3 or even 4. The mysterious new model is expected to ride on Hyundai's E-GMP platform, which underpins its current IONIQ 5, 6, 9, and car lineup. Kia Electric.
Although little is known about it, the IONIQ 3 will be slightly smaller than the popular IONIQ 5. It will likely be close to Kia's new EV3.
The latest spy photos show similar design elements to the IONIQ, including wheels, door handles, and several interior features.
Hyundai's new EV is expected to be available in single and dual-motor powertrains with options for 62 or 84-kWh battery packs. In comparison, the Kia EV3 offers a range of up to 605 km (375 mi) WLTP with a larger battery (81.4 kWh). The small battery (58.3 kWh) provides a range of 436 km (271 mi) in the WLTP cycle.
In Europe, Kia's small EV3 starts at around 36,000 euros ($38,300). A low-cost EV can be purchased in Korea for less than $30,000 with incentives.
It will be interesting to see how the IONIQ 3 compares to Hyundai's new Casper Electric. The Casper Electric, known as the Inster EV in Europe, starts at around $20,000 (27.4 million won) in Korea.
Hyundai's low-cost EV offers a range of up to 315 km (195 miles) in Korea and 355 km (221 miles) on the WLTP cycle. Unlike the IONIQ series, the Casper Electric is based on Hyundai's smaller H2 platform.
The new Hyundai electric SUV will debut in China in early 2026. For those in the US, Europe, and other overseas markets we will have to wait to find out if it will be launched in overseas markets. Stay tuned for more.
Source: TheKoreanCarBlog, Autospy
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