Can the Hyundai Seven EV concept actually seat 7?
Seven is Hyundai's idea for a three-row, full-size electric SUV
Kia was not the only brand that revealed an electric vehicle (EV) concept at this year's Los Angeles Auto Show. Also making its presence felt was Hyundai who recently unveiled its own full-size electric SUV.
Simply called 'Seven', the concept is essentially Hyundai's take on a three-row electric SUV that will become the basis of a production model that will sit alongside the Ioniq 5. First teased as the Ioniq 7 back in September, the Seven combines sleek lines, muscular curves, and a bold-looking interior.
Unlike the EV9 which has a boxy design, the Seven has a more aerodynamic exterior that consists of a distinct beltline that runs the entire length of the vehicle, a sloping roofline, and a curvy front fascia. Meanwhile, the upright tailgate, squared wheel arches, and flat D-pillars provide a bit of contrast against the EV's pre-dominantly clean lines.
To remind everyone that this is indeed an Ioniq, the Seven features the brand's signature Parametric Pixel Lights that deliver a welcome light sequence upon start-up. Other notable features present on the Seven concept include a slim LED light bar at the front, two vertical foglights on either side of the mesh-type grille, full-width LED taillights, and distinct alloy wheels that come with Active Air Flaps that deploy or retract depending on brake-cooling or low-drag requirements.
Despite being meant to ferry three-rows of passengers, the Seven can serve as a mobile lounge on wheels. This is made clear when you open the pillarless coach doors and are greeted by a flat floor and oversized chairs. Combined with its long wheelbase, and Hyundai claims that it opens opportunities to furnish the cabin.
The seat arrangement is unlike traditional SUVs, with swiveling lounge chairs and a curved bench seat inviting occupants to relax inside the Hyundai Seven. The seating arrangement can also be customized depending on driver-controlled or autonomous driving modes.
That's right, should the driver choose to let the Seven drive itself, they can retract the vehicle's controls when not in use. With the ultra-slim cockpit and integrated screens on the dashboard, it makes for the ultimate first-class experience while inside the Seven.
Details about its electric powertrain remain a mystery. But Hyundai did say that the production model will have a driving range of over 483 km. It can also recharge from 10% to 80% in just 20 – 30 minutes via a 350-kW fast-charging system. If those figures sound familiar, that's because the Seven is also underpinned by the same E-GMP platform as the Kia EV9.
“Seven dares to break from the beaten path. Seven paves the way forward for what an SUV needs to become in the EV era with a unique aerodynamic pure form that does not compromise on its rugged personality. The interior opens up a new dimension of space that cares for its passenger as a family living space,” said SangYup Lee, senior vice president, Head of Hyundai Global Design.
With the Seven concept revealed, it might only be a matter of time before Hyundai actually reveals the production version. The only question now is, will Kia beat Hyundai in releasing a full-size electric SUV, or will both brands actually reveal them simultaneously?
