Hyundai has unveiled a new dedicated EV platform. Beginning in 2021, the Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) will underpin a range of new EVs, including Hyundai’s IONIQ 5 and a 2021 Kia EV.

The E-GMP’s compact new power electric (PE) system consists of a motor, EV transmission and inverter integrated into a single compact module. Hyundai says its high-speed motor is smaller and lighter than other motors while providing comparable performance.

A five-link rear suspension system, which is typically used for mid- and large-size vehicle segments, and a new integrated drive axle (IDA), which combines wheel bearings with the driveshaft to transmit power to the wheels, are designed to enhance ride comfort and improve handling stability.

The company says the battery pack—mounted between the front and rear wheel axles—will be the most power-dense system Hyundai has ever created. This is partly thanks to its enhanced cooling performance, the result of a new separate cooling block structure that helps make the battery pack more compact. With an energy density around 10 percent higher than existing EV batteries, the packs are lighter, and can be mounted lower in the body to liberate more cabin space. All vehicles developed with the E-GMP platform use a standardized single type of battery module, composed of pouch-type standard cells that can be packed in different quantities as required for each vehicle.

Most existing fast-charging infrastructure provides 50 to 150 kWh charging for EVs equipped with a 400 V system; however, the development of 800 V infrastructure, which makes power levels of up to 350 kWh practical, will enable even faster charging.

The E-GMP platform offers 800 V charging capability as standard, and enables 400 V charging without the need for additional components or adapters. Hyundai says its multi-charging system is the world’s first patented technology that operates the motor and inverter to boost 400 V to 800 V for stable charging compatibility.

An EV based on E-GMP is capable of a maximum range of over 500 km with a fully charged battery, according to the Worldwide Harmonized Light-duty vehicle Procedure (WLTP). Moreover, it can  fast charge up to 80 percent in 18 minutes.

The E-GMP’s charging system supports bi-directional charging. Its newly developed Integrated Charging Control Unit (ICCU) enables a new vehicle-to-load (V2L) function, which can draw energy from the vehicle battery without additional components. This enables EVs based on the E-GMP to operate other electric machinery (110 V / 220 V) anywhere. The system can even be used to charge another EV.

The E-GMP will underpin Hyundai’s plans to introduce a total of 23 EV models, including 11 dedicated EV models, and sell more than 1 million EVs worldwide by 2025.

“Today our front-wheel-driven Hyundai and Kia EVs are already among the most efficient ones in their segments,” said Albert Biermann, Hyundai’s President and Head of R&D.   “With our rear-wheel-driven E-GMP, we are extending our technological leadership into segments where customers demand excellent driving dynamics and outstanding efficiency.”

“E-GMP is the culmination of years of research and development and brings together our most cutting-edge technologies. Our EV line-up will evolve and be strengthened by this innovative new platform,” said Senior VP Fayez Abdul Rahman.

Source: Hyundai