Hyundai Motor India has filed a trademark for the name Ioniq P, signalling that its upcoming mass-market electric SUV could carry the globally recognised Ioniq badge. The trademark application appears on the official registry under class 12, which covers vehicles. While a trademark filing alone does not guarantee a production name, the timing aligns with other strong indicators. During the company's Q3 2026 earnings call on October 29, management referred to an upcoming model called Ioniq P as the next product after the recently launched Bayon. Multiple media reports confirm this reference, though officials did not explicitly link it to the HE1i project.
The new electric SUV, internally codenamed HE1i, is being developed specifically for the Indian market. It will be a sub-4-metre model positioned below the Creta Electric and Ioniq 5 in Hyundai's local lineup. This positioning makes it the most affordable electric car the brand will offer in India. Spy shots suggest a boxy silhouette with a flat roofline, prominent roof rails, dual-pod LED headlights with pixelated daytime running lights, and pixelated LED tail lamps. Aerodynamically designed 16- or 17-inch alloy wheels are also expected.
Platform and battery options
The HE1i is likely to use Hyundai's E-GMP (K) architecture, a derivative of the platform that underpins the global Ioniq 5 and the smaller Inster electric car sold overseas. The Inster offers 42 kWh and 49 kWh battery packs with a claimed WLTP range of up to 355 kilometres. Hyundai has not confirmed whether the India-spec model will adopt the same battery capacities or range figures. However, the company has previously stated that the new EV will be offered with two battery options catering to standard-range and long-range buyers, with a claimed range of up to 500 kilometres. Fast DC charging capability will be included for long-distance travel.
Initially, the vehicle will rely on imported battery cells. Hyundai plans to transition to locally sourced cells through its partnership with Exide Industries at a later stage, as supplies under the Hyundai-Kia programme are not expected to begin immediately. Production will take place at the Sriperumbudur plant in Tamil Nadu, with extensive localisation to keep pricing competitive.
Expected features and safety
The cabin is expected to feature Hyundai's latest Pleos Connect infotainment system, which will also debut on the next-generation Creta. A dual digital display setup, a new three-spoke steering wheel, ventilated front seats, a sunroof (possibly panoramic), dual-zone climate control, and wireless phone charging are likely to be part of the equipment list. On the safety front, six airbags as standard, electronic stability control, ISOFIX child seat anchors, a 360-degree camera, and Level 2 advanced driver assistance systems are anticipated.
Launch timeline and rivals
According to Autocar India, the launch is expected in January 2027, while other reports point to the first quarter of calendar year 2027. CarDekho estimates a starting price of around Rs 13 lakh (ex-showroom). Once launched, the Ioniq P will compete directly with the Tata Punch EV, Tata Nexon EV, Mahindra XUV 3XO EV, Kia Syros EV, and Mahindra XUV400 EV in the highly contested Rs 10-20 lakh compact electric SUV space.
Hyundai has not officially confirmed the name, specifications, or pricing. The trademark filing and earnings call reference make Ioniq P a strong probability, but the final production name could differ. The Rs 10-20 lakh segment is growing rapidly as more buyers consider compact electric vehicles, and Hyundai's entry could reshape the competitive landscape if priced aggressively and backed by a capable powertrain.
FAQs
What is the Hyundai Ioniq P?
The Ioniq P is a trademarked name that Hyundai has registered in India for its upcoming sub-4-metre electric SUV, internally codenamed HE1i. It is expected to be the brand's most affordable electric car in the country.
When will the Hyundai Ioniq P launch in India?
Media reports indicate a launch in January 2027 or the first quarter of calendar year 2027. Hyundai has not announced an official launch date.
What platform will the Ioniq P use?
The vehicle is expected to use Hyundai's E-GMP (K) architecture, which also underpins the global Ioniq 5 and Inster electric cars.
What battery options and range can we expect?
Two battery options are likely, referencing the Inster's 42 kWh and 49 kWh packs with up to 355 km WLTP range. Hyundai has previously claimed up to 500 km range for the India model, but official figures are not yet confirmed.
Who are the main rivals of the Hyundai Ioniq P?
The Ioniq P will compete with the Tata Punch EV, Tata Nexon EV, Mahindra XUV 3XO EV, Kia Syros EV, and Mahindra XUV400 EV in the compact electric SUV segment.