KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Hyundai's EREVs to offer 960 km range by 2027.
- EREVs use smaller batteries for affordable, long-range EVs.
- Indias uneven charging infrastructure ideal for Hyundai's EREVs.
- Hyundai's EREVs promise consistent performance, 90% battery retention.
- Shift to smarter EV systems with AI-driven technology.
Hyundai: Electric vehicles have made significant progress over the past decade, but one concern continues to dominate buyer sentiment: range anxiety. The fear of running out of charge without access to a nearby charging station has slowed down adoption, particularly in markets like India where charging infrastructure is still evolving. Hyundai Motor Company now believes it has the answer.
At its first CEO Investor Day held outside Korea, Hyundai revealed that by 2027, it will introduce a new category of vehicles called Extended Range EVs (EREVs), capable of delivering more than 960 km (600 miles) on a single charge. If this promise translates into real-world performance, it could mark the beginning of the end for range anxiety globally. Check out more details below and make sure you join our 91Wheels WhatsApp Community to stay versed on the latest automotive news.
Read more: Hyundai to Expand Hybrid Portfolio: Will India See Affordable Hyundai Hybrids Soon?
What Makes Hyundai's EREVs Different?
The idea of extended-range electric vehicles isn't new. Several automakers have experimented with combining small petrol engines or generators with electric motors to stretch driving distance. However, Hyundai's approach is notably distinct. Instead of using conventional plug-in hybrid-style setups, the company is developing in-house high-performance batteries and motors that mimic the feel of a full EV but with smarter energy management.
Hyundai claims its system requires less than half the battery capacity of current long-range EVs, yet manages to provide a full EV power experience. In simple terms, this means drivers won't need to pay a premium for oversized battery packs, making long-range electric mobility more accessible and affordable.
Why 960 km Matters
Most mass-market EVs today offer between 250 km and 500 km of real-world range. Premium models like the Mercedes EQS and Tesla Model S stretch beyond 600 km, but they remain expensive and inaccessible for the majority. A mainstream EV that can deliver nearly 1,000 km on a single charge would change how buyers perceive electric cars.
For countries like India, where intercity travel often involves 400-600 km stretches with limited charging support, such a range could allow EVs to replace petrol and diesel cars without compromise. Weekend road trips, highway runs and even fleet applications like taxis or intercity shuttles would suddenly look feasible without constant charging stops.
Tackling Range Anxiety at its Root
Range anxiety is not just about numbers on paper" it's about trust. Even if an EV claims 500 km range, aggressive driving, weather conditions or battery degradation can reduce that figure drastically. Hyundai says its EREVs will combine high-performance batteries, optimized engine-battery integration and advanced energy management systems to deliver consistent results.
Additionally, the company has studied real-world data from over 50,000 IONIQ 5 units, some driven more than 400,000 km, and found that most retained over 90 percent battery performance. This durability focus suggests that Hyundai's long-range EVs won't just look good in brochures but will hold up well over years of ownership.
Implications for the Indian Market
India is one of Hyundai's most important markets and the company has already confirmed it is working on a locally designed EV for Indian buyers. While it hasn't officially announced if EREVs will debut here, the logic is clear: if there's one market where 960 km range could be a game-changer, it's India.
Long distances, uneven charging infrastructure, and consumer skepticism towards EVs make India a perfect candidate for such technology. Pairing an extended-range EV with a localized supply chain could also help Hyundai price the vehicle competitively against rivals like Tata, Mahindra and MG.
Beyond Range - A Shift in EV Strategy
Hyundai's announcement isn't just about adding kilometers. It signals a shift in EV strategy where the focus moves from oversized batteries to smarter, more efficient systems. This could make EVs lighter, cheaper, and more sustainable to produce, addressing some of the common criticisms of battery-heavy models.
At the same time, Hyundai is working on software-defined vehicles, AI-driven infotainment systems and cloud-based battery diagnostics, ensuring its EVs remain ahead of the curve in both performance and technology.
Will It Really End Range Anxiety?
The big question remains: will 960 km be enough to silence skeptics? For most drivers, yes. Even heavy users who drive 100-150 km daily would only need to recharge once every 6-7 days. The challenge will shift from range anxiety to charging time and infrastructure. Hyundai has promised 15 percent shorter charging durations by 2027, but unless charging networks scale up simultaneously, the full potential of EREVs may not be realized.
Read more: Important Features The Maruti Victoris Misses Out On
Verdict
Hyundai's plan to roll out Extended Range EVs with nearly 1,000 km range by 2027 is nothing short of bold. If successful, it could fundamentally change how buyers in India and across the globe perceive EVs, positioning them not as city runabouts but as true replacements for petrol and diesel vehicles.
