The Hyundai IONIQ 5 ASEAN Tour - Taking the EV on a 2,751 km Journey Across Five Countries

Hyundai Motor Company launched and flagged off the "Far with Zero Worries" IONIQ 5 ASEAN Tour, which covers a 2,751-kilometer route across Southeast Asia. The Flag Off Ceremony took place at the Hyundai Motor Group Innovation Center Singapore (HMGICS) yesterday, and is planned to finish at the Royal Palace in  Ho Chi Minh City,Vietnam on November 30th. Today, the convoy has flagged off from Hyundai Sime Darby Motor's headquarters in Ara Damansara (above) on their way up north towards Vietnam.

The convoy, consisting of three cars from HMGICS and two from Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Indonesia (HMMI), intends to showcases the IONIQ 5's reliability, eco-friendliness, and long-distance capabilities which should bring more assurance to those that want to get into the electric vehicle ecosystem. The journey spans five different countries in Southeast Asia, starting in Singapore and weaving through Malaysia, Thailand, Cambodia, and ending in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Basically covering the more popular countries in S.E.A.

The idea for the tour first came out from South Korea. It is a collaboration between the Association of Singapore (AAS) and Hyundai Korea Domestic Market. Now, with Hyundai Motor ASEAN Headquarters joining forces to make this happen, this journey marks a significant milestone, aiming to surpass expectations and redefine the automotive landscape with cutting-edge technology. In simpler words, Hyundai wants to prove the practicality of using electric vehicles over really long distances - on a personal note this is possible, provided you plan your charging stops ahead.

Twenty-four participants, including representatives from Hyundai Motor Company, the AAS, Hyundai club members, local community influencers across ASEAN countries, and Key Opinion Leaders (KOL) from Indonesia and Thailand, have been chosen for the trip.

Exploring over 20 iconic destinations, such as the Penang Heritage Walk in Malaysia and the Bayon Temple in Cambodia, the IONIQ 5 proves to be a reliable companion for a long-distance journey.

Youngtack Lee, President of Hyundai Motor ASEAN Headquarters, expressed during his welcome remarks at the Flag Off ceremony, “Our aspiration through this journey is to demonstrate the reliability, eco-friendliness, and long-distance capabilities of the IONIQ 5, aiming to reduce consumer doubts and anxiety about EVs, especially in the region.”

Hyundai also wishes to add the benefits of IONIQ 5 Vehicle to Load (V2L)innovative feature. This allows the IONIQ 5 to serve as a charging port, benefiting not only the participants of the tour but also the local communities along the route. With V2L, the IONIQ 5 becomes a versatile energy hub, empowering participants to tap into its electrical prowess for various needs, from powering gadgets to providing on-the-go electricity for community events. The technology exemplifies Hyundai's commitment to smart and sustainable mobility.

The tour not only marks a historic collaboration between many key stakeholders but also symbolizes seamless connectivity and cooperation across borders. This journey becomes a catalyst for positive change and technological innovation.

As the tour progresses, it not only redefines the driving experience but also signifies a pivotal moment in the automotive industry. The IONIQ 5 is not just a vehicle; it's a symbol of Hyundai's dedication to shaping a more sustainable and connected future for the ASEAN region. The IONIQ 5 ASEAN Tour is not merely a journey; as it will be a transformative exploration, paving the way for a new era in electric mobility as well as a way to make new friends within the S.E.A region.