Hyundai to launch new electric 'B-segment' car in 2026

James Batchelor

4 Jul 2025

Hyundai will bolster its electric car range with a new small model next year, Electrifying has learnt.

The new 'B-segment car' will sit above the recently-launched INSTER, and will be designed, engineered and built in Europe.

The South Korean carmaker will show off a fresh concept car at the Munich Motor Show, Germany, in September, and it's likely to preview the forthcoming B-segment car.

It's unclear whether the newcomer will be a conventional hatchback to rival the likes of the Renault 5 and Vauxhall Corsa Electric, or a high-riding SUV to compete with the Renault 4 and Kia EV3. It's likely to wear the Ioniq name, such as Ioniq 2, but could use a different badge to Hyundai's Ioniq range in the same vein as the INSTER.

Regardless, the new car will be based on Hyundai Motor Group's high adaptable E-GMP platform as already used on a raft of models, including Electrifying.com's Car of the Year 2025, the Kia EV3. Also, it will debut Hyundai's new end-to-end operating system called 'Pleos', and will be designed, engineered and built in Europe. 

 Xavier Chardon, President and CEO of Hyundai Motor Europe, told Electrifying: "We want to offer a product that’s not just technically sound but truly tailored to European customer expectations. This new B-segment car is a key part of our strategy to perform in this segment where we currently see big opportunities."

He added: "We have a clear vision: to design in Europe, build in Europe, and sell in Europe. That’s how we create cars that truly connect with our customers here."

Newcomer will sit above the INSTER in Hyundai's range
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