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As we approach summer deliveries of Hyundai’s upcoming electric streamliner – the IONIQ 6 – I got the chance to get behind the wheel for the first time and share my thoughts. As Hyundai’s second model on its 800V E-GMP platform and one of the most aerodynamic EVs available, the IONIQ 6 is sure to provide an extremely joyful, sporty ride to owners while delivering some of the most advanced technology at quite reasonable costs.

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Hyundai IONIQ 6 first drive: Is any other automaker delivering more value in high-tech EVs right now?

Background on the Hyundai IONIQ 6

Ever since Hyundai launched its new EV-specific line of IONIQ vehicles in 2020, the 6 streamliner has been on our radar as one we’ve been dying to drive, especially after the quick success of its preceding sibling, the IONIQ 5.

Hyundai teased first images of the aero-centric sedan in June of 2022, followed by a global debut event in mid-July. In October, Hyundai shared the targeted range and drag coefficient on the IONIQ 6, which now arrives as one of the most aerodynamic EVs on the market.

Pre-orders began in the EU first and sold out in less than 24 hours. Following its official debut at Automobility Los Angeles last fall, Hyundai officially launched the IONIQ 6 in North America, which only flamed the fire of desire for this sleek EV on the 800V platform.

Admittedly, I was not blown away by the first images of the IONIQ 6, but after personally exploring it inside and out in my video walk-through, I had a quick change of heart. It’s a lot smaller and sportier in person, yet is still enormous inside.

After that visit to Hyundai USA, I couldn’t wait to get behind the wheel of this thing and test it out for myself. I recently got that chance and was not disappointed. Here are my thoughts.

IONIQ 6 is loaded with interior and exterior firsts for Hyundai

If you follow Electrek closely, you probably have witnessed me gawk over the IONIQ 5 for over a year, as it felt like an all-electric ode to my own personal style – retro meets high-tech. Like a first born, I didn’t think I had any room left in my heart for the IONIQ 6. What the hell is a “streamliner” anyway?

Well, just like Hyundai did in the interior cabin of this new 800V EV, I somehow found more room to love the IONIQ 6 and believe it is going to fare extremely well globally. The team at Hyundai described the overall feel of 6 as a more driver-centric experience compared to the IONIQ 5.

Like the IONIQ 5, Hyundai’s parametric pixels are visible throughout the exterior, from the front headlamps, to the entire rear taillight, and up across its super sporty dual spoilers, housing a unique stop lamp. Across its side, you’ll notice a unique character line and two-tone cladding.

Moving down toward the front wheel, Hyundai has implemented a subtle but effective gap reducer, which its design team explained allows for shorter overall overhang up front while retaining maximized aerodynamics. Speaking of aero, the Hyundai IONIQ 6 offers a 0.22 drag coefficient – strengthening its title as a streamliner.

IONIQ 6

Moving inward, you’ll notice a “winglet” dashboard design that has much more of a cockpit feel compared to the compact SUV that came before it. In a unique first for Hyundai, it also moved all the door buttons to the bridge style center console, allowing not only a minimalist door interior but also a noticeable width and comfort for both the driver and front passenger.

The steering wheel features four parametric pixels, which I learned translates to “H” in morse code. Across the cockpit, Hyundai as upped its lighting game by adding dual ambience to the IONIQ 6. In addition to six preset lighting themes and over 4,000 different combinations, the streamliner’s ambient light is linked to its speed and can change as you accelerate – once again adding to the overall “driver-centric” experience.

While driving, I found the design of the steering wheel intuitive and loved the paddle shifters on either side to switch between four different levels of regenerative braking. It should come as no surprise that I kept it mostly on Hyundai’s stiffest I-Pedal mode for one pedal driving, but I felt it had a balanced mix of recuperation for all driver preferences. The IONIQ 6 also features a Smart Regenerative System (SRS) 2.0 that monitors the EV’s speed and vehicles around it by using front radar and adjusts regen accordingly. I really felt it when going down declines, for instance, as the brake automatically applies itself in front of your foot. Eerie, but cool – talk about ghost riding the whip!

The Limited trim I was driving comes equipped with an 110V vehicle-to-load outlet under the rear seat, which can be used to power devices when the EV is on or in utility mode. Like the 5, the IONIQ 6 also features V2L on its exterior plug, capable of an 110V, 15 amp output at 1.9 kW.

It’s no a hypercar, but it’s still fun as hell to drive

As you’ll see in the detailed specifications below, the Hyundai IONIQ 6 is not the fastest or most powerful EV on the market, nor is it trying to be. What it is, however, is a super aerodynamic ride with some of the industry’s best efficiency that still has plenty of go when you hit the accelerator.

Did I mention it also sits on an 800V platform capable of charge rates between 230-235 kW on a DC charger? It’s also backward compatible with 400V charging, thanks to its onboard inverter. Who else is delivering that? Better yet, who else is delivering that for the MSRPs you’ll see below?

The platform itself features a new heat pump that reflects heat from the motor(s) vertically down through the battery cells to the cooling module beneath. Hyundai’s team explained this allowed them to reduce the part count by 70%, including the removal of a cooling fan, thus increasing the EV’s energy efficiency by 7%. What’s better is that battery preconditioning and the heat pump come standard on all trims of the IONIQ 6. Love that.

The AWD version features new dog clutch as part of a Disconnect Actuator System (DAS) that allows the front motor to operate separately from the wheels, leading to another 6% increase in efficiency. Hyundai is offering three versions of the IONIQ 6 with AWD and the DAS, alongside four RWD versions of varying performance and design features. Here’s how they break down.

Performance specs, trim levels, and pricing

Future customers of the IONIQ 6 will not only see a variety of trim levels at their disposal offering an option for nearly anyone willing to spend $42,000 on a new EV, but arguably the most bang for your buck in terms of technology and standard features.

Model Drivetrain Motor(s) Battery EPA Range (18″ wheels) MSRP
SE Standard Range RWD 111 kW (149 HP) 53 kWh 240 miles $41,600
SE RWD 168 kW (225 HP) 77.4 kWh 361 miles $45,500
SEL RWD 168 kW (225 HP) 77.4 kWh 305 miles $47,700
Limited RWD 168 kW (225 HP) 77.4 kWh 305 miles $52,600
SE AWD AWD 165 kW + 74 kW (320 HP) 77.4 kWh 316 miles $49,000
SEL AWD AWD 165 kW + 74 kW (320 HP) 77.4 kWh 270 miles $51,200
Limited AWD AWD 165 kW + 74 kW (320 HP) 77.4 kWh 270 miles $56,100
MSRPs do not include additional $1,115 delivery fees

Hyundai shared that all seven trims mentioned above are currently in production in Korea. Every variant will soon be available to order, except for the RWD version of the SE, which is scheduled to arrive this summer.

The automaker told us the 6 will be available in 43 states currently home to IONIQ certified dealers, but it could be eventually available in all 50 states, should those dealers apply to sell.

Plenty of other notable features to explore

Here are some additional features that Hyundai is wielding to truly set itself apart from the market. The IONIQ 6 will feature the debut of Hyundai’s first iteration of EV route planner in its navigation system.

The new maps pull real-time data from all the major charging networks to suggest where to stop and recharge along your predetermined route. If you drive past one, the navigation will quickly update and suggest a new spot to stop along the way.

Hyundai shared that this feature will also be rolled out to other EVs later this year via OTA update, so keep an eye out for that. Additionally, all future Hyundai EVs will come equipped with the complimentary software, beginning on 2024 models.

Another cool feature is Hyundai’s BlueLink+ digital key, which allows you to unlock and start the IONIQ 6 with your smartphone without the need for your key fob. As we also tested, you can add Blue Link to your Apple Watch and open the EV’s doors (see above), but you still need a phone to start the car.

In another first, original IONIQ 6 owners will receive complimentary BlueLink+ access with no expiration. Previously, new EV owners were given three years of access. This includes full access to Connected Care, Remote Access, and Navigational Guidance. The streamliner will also come with in-car Wi-Fi hot spot powered by Verizon’s 4G LTE network for three free months or 3GB of data.

So how does it drive? Well my friends, let me tell you.

IONIQ 6 only strengthens Hyundai’s growing EV prowess

Right as we pulled out of the hotel in Scottsdale, Arizona, I wasted no time in immediately switching to Sport Mode and giving the IONIQ 6 hell. My drive partner Jordan was immediately pushed back into his seat as we experience all 320 horsepower of our AWD Limited trim. He immediately turned to me and said, “This is gonna be a fun day.” He wasn’t wrong.

As I mentioned before, I loved the stiff regen of I-Pedal, which allowed me to come to a complete halt and stay put without ever touching the brake. I personally left coasting and rolling behind with combustion and always get a little irked when automakers tout stiff regenerative braking that doesn’t deliver true one-pedal driving. Hyundai’s is some of the best in my opinion.

Even in normal drive mode, the torque of the dual motors in the IONIQ 6 sent me, but Sport Mode was where it was at in terms of acceleration, especially through the winding desert plains around Arizona. Accelerating through curves and over humps in the road, the IONIQ 6 cut through the air while hugging the pavement, offering a much sportier ride than the 5.

Remember that ambient lightning I mentioned earlier tied to the EV’s acceleration? Well, Sport Mode also includes a relative EV Active Sound Design (e-ASD) function that blasts space-age motor noises through the cabin as you accelerate. It’s tough to get the full experience from the video below, but you can still hear the futuristic hum, complimented by an echoing chime as we accelerate. Have a listen.

In terms of user interface, I found the 12.3 displays and HUD to be more than adequate. The access to CarPlay is always welcome in my opinion, although there was no capability for wireless CarPlay connectivity. Not a huge deal, but it would have been a nice addition.

Taylor Swift’s new album sounded amazing on the Bose Premium audio system, blasted throughout the roomy cabin. Whether I was driving, riding shotgun, or exploring the back seat, the IONIQ 6’s 116-inch wheelbase provided tons of room, enabling a passenger volume of 103 cubic-feet, which is significantly larger than comparable models like the Tesla Model 3 or Polestar 2.

Yet another reason why I think the IONIQ 6 is going to be another home run in the market. It provides a more driving-focused design for those potential customers who found the 5 too large or boxy, while still delivering ultrafast charging, V2L, and amazing efficiency.

In terms of pricing, Hyundai is not only offering tremendous variety through seven trims but also a price point to satisfy most drivers looking to go electric, especially when you consider many of the features that come standard (e.g. heat pump, BlueLink+, etc.).

Personally, I feel like the RWD SE is the sweet spot in the lineup. With 361 miles of estimated range for just over $45,000, you’re getting nearly 90 miles more than the RWD Model 3 for about an extra $2,000. I think the 235 kW charge rate and V2L capability is worth that extra money alone, but the added range is a bonus. The SE feels like another solid option if you want AWD, still offering over 315 miles of range with extra oomph from the front motor.

All in all, the Hyundai IONIQ 6 feels bound to arrive as another successful entry into the EV market and will provide even more evidence that the automaker is delivering some of the most advanced and efficient vehicles at respectable value. Being able to eventually produce EVs in the US should only sweeten the deal for potential consumers who can take advantage of federal tax credits.

I highly recommend going for a test drive when you can, because this EV is going to be tough to get when it goes on sale.

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Elon Musk’s Boring Company has work crew in Nashville walk off job over unpaid bills and safety

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November 26, 2025

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Elon Musk’s Boring Company has work crew in Nashville walk off job over unpaid bills and safety


The Boring Company, Elon Musk’s tunneling startup, is reportedly facing significant issues with its new project in Nashville, Tennessee. A key subcontractor has walked off the job, alleging that the company has failed to pay for work completed on the “Music City Loop,” claiming they have received only 5% of what they are owed.

We have been following The Boring Company’s expansion efforts closely.

After the relative success of the Las Vegas Loop and several projects that failed to materialize, it looked like the company was winding down until a new proposal in Nashville gained some momentum.

However, a new report from the Nashville Banner indicates that the project is hitting a major wall.

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Shane Trucking and Excavating, a local contractor hired to handle preliminary work for the tunnel project, pulled its workers off the site this Monday. William Shane, the owner of the company, told the Banner that The Boring Company has “ghosted” them and failed to pay invoices totaling in the six figures.

According to Shane, the payment terms were initially set for every 15 days, then unilaterally switched to 60 days. Now, he claims it has been over 120 days since they broke ground, and his company has received only a fraction of the payment due.

“We were really skeptical from the beginning, and then since then, things pretty much just went downhill,” Shane said.

The contractor was reportedly responsible for preparing the launch pad for “Prufrock,” The Boring Company’s proprietary tunnel boring machine (TBM). We previously reported on Prufrock’s capabilities, with the company claiming it can dig tunnels significantly faster than conventional machines, supposedly porpoising directly from the surface to avoid digging expensive launch pits.

If the launch pad isn’t finished because the excavator wasn’t paid, Prufrock isn’t digging anywhere.

This isn’t the first time we’ve heard of payment issues involving Musk-led companies. Tesla has been known to not pay its bills, leading to small companies going bankrupt.

As The Boring Company was stiffing Shane on the bills, the company tried to poach workers from its own contractor and lied about it:

“One of their head guys texts two of my welders, offering them a job for $45 an hour from his work phone,” Shane described, noting that the same TBC employee denied sending the texts when confronted with screenshots. “That’s actually a breach of contract.”

On top of the missed payments, Shane alleges serious safety concerns. They made several official complaints to OSHA:

“Where we’re digging, we’re so far down, there should be concrete and different structures like that to hold the slope back from falling on you while you’re working. Where most people use concrete, they currently have — I’m not even kidding — they currently have wood. They had us install wood 2x12s.” 

The Boring Company Vice President David Buss blamed missed payments on “invoicing errors” in a statement to the Banner:

“It does look like we had some invoicing errors on that. It was, you know, unfortunately, too common of a thing, but I assured them that we are going to make sure that invoices are wired tomorrow.”

He also said that he would look into the poaching allegations, but added that he is not aware of any OSHA complaints.

The “Music City Loop” was pitched as a solution to connect downtown Nashville to the airport, a route that is notoriously congested.

The Boring Company claims it can complete the project without public money, but there are some obvious issues with its financing.

Electrek’s Take

I’ve been willing to give them the benefit of the doubt on the “Loop” concept. While it falls short of the original “autonomous pods” vision or the “Hyperloop” speed dreams, the system in Las Vegas does work to move people, even if it is just Teslas in tunnels driven by humans.

There’s just no evidence that it would be more efficient than any other public transit system.

When Musk launched The Boring Company’s first test tunnel in LA, I asked him if he had any simulations showing his “loop” system to be more efficient. He said that they were working on that. That was 7 years ago.

Therefore, while The Boring Company appears to have achieved marginal improvements in tunnel boring, mainly when it comes to smaller tunnels; it has yet to show clear evidence that its Loop system is a better solution than any other public transit system.


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Heybike Mars 3.0 and Ranger 3.0 Pro e-bikes get Black Friday cuts to lows from $1,199, Tesla + Leviton EV chargers, Hiboy EV lows, more

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7 hours ago

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November 26, 2025

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Heybike Mars 3.0 and Ranger 3.0 Pro e-bikes get Black Friday cuts to lows from ,199, Tesla + Leviton EV chargers, Hiboy EV lows, more


Our Green Deals today are all centered around Black Friday EV savings, led by the first post-launch price cuts on Heybike’s new Mars 3.0 Folding e-bike to its $1,199 low, as well as the equally new Ranger 3.0 Folding e-bike options starting from a $1,399 low. From there, we spotted Tesla’s Universal Wall Connector EV charger retaining a $50 price cut to $600, as well as Leviton’s smart 48A level 2 EV charger at a new low, Hiboy’s Black Friday EV sale with tons of new low prices thanks to the 53% initial discounts and bonus savings codes, and much more waiting for you below. And don’t forget about the hangover deals that are collected together at the bottom of the page, like yesterday’s increased Velotric Black Friday savings with new lows and extra battery bundles starting from $999, the Lectric XPeak 2.0 Off-Road e-bike bundles that are shrinking in stock, and more.

Head below for other New Green Deals we’ve found today and, of course, Electrek’s best EV buying and leasing deals. Also, check out the new Electrek Tesla Shop for the best deals on Tesla accessories.

Heybike drops new Mars 3.0 folding e-bike back to its $1,199 low during Black Friday sale for first time since launch

As part of its ongoing Black Friday e-bike sale, and coming right alongside the equally new price cut on the Ranger 3.0 Pro, Heybike is giving us the first official post-launch discount on its Mars 3.0 Folding Fat-Tire e-bike for $1,199 shipped, as well as a FREE Black Friday gift pack. It launched back at the top of August with a $100 discount from its $1,299 full price, which is repeating here for the first time since those initial deals cooled, and while the discount may not be large, you’re certainly getting a lot of upgraded features for such a low price.

Designed for those riders who seek greater thrills, the new Heybike Mars 3.0 e-bike brings along the new Galaxy Perform eDrive System, which pairs a 750W rear hub motor (1,400W peak) with 95nM of torque (and an obvious torque sensor), as well as a removable 624Wh battery. This system allows you to reach 20 or 28 MPH top speeds, determined by your local laws, and provides pedal-assisted support for up to 65 miles on one full charge. Just like the equally new Ranger 3.0 Pro model, you’ll find a new TFT display on this generation that delivers NFC start-up so you can turn it on by simply tapping your device to the display.

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Aside from its continued space-saving, folding frame, you’ll also notice an improved 440-pound payload so heavier riders can get in on the fun or allow smaller riders to haul some serious cargo weight. The lineup of upgraded features includes a hydraulic suspension fork, a rear Horst link suspension, hydraulic disc brakes, 4-inch puncture-protected tires with fenders, a brake-lit taillight with turn signals, a headlight, a horn, a rear cargo rack, a Shimano Altus 8-speed derailleur, and more.

man and woman riding Heybike Ranger 3.0 Pro e-bikes down street

Heybike’s new-gen Ranger 3.0 Pro folding commuter e-bike gets first post-launch cut to $1,399 low for Black Friday

As part of Heybike’s ongoing Black Friday Sale, and coming in right alongside the new Mars 3.0 Folding e-bike price drop, we’re also now seeing the new Ranger 3.0 Pro Folding Fat-Tire e-bike getting a cut to $1,399 shipped and coming with a FREE Black Friday gift pack. This model was released alongside the Mars 3.0 back in August, and has remained at its $1,499 full price since the initial launch deals ended that month. Now, during this Black Friday season, the brand is offering the first post-launch discount we have seen, giving you another chance at $100 savings on an already lower-cost commuter solution at its best price that we have tracked. Of course, if you want an even more premium look, this model has a Limited Miami Sunset colorway option that has been given a price cut to $1,599 shipped, as well as a Black Friday gift pack and a Miami Sunset gift pack for more added goodies.

Like the Mars 3.0 counterpart, the new Heybike Ranger 3.0 Pro e-bike is quite the higher-end solution for folks seeking new commuting options, all while retaining accessible pricing. It’s been upgraded from the popular Ranger S model with the new Galaxy Perform eDrive System, combining a 750W rear hub motor (1,200W peak), 80nM of torque, and a 720Wh battery. This combination provides a max speed of 20/28 MPH (depending on individual state laws), as well as pedal-assisted support (presided over by a torque sensor) for up to 90 miles on one charge, making it quite the handy commuter – plus, there’s the space-saving folding frame when you reach your destination. It boasts a new TFT display that allows you to tap your phone for NFC start-ups, giving you an extra layer of smart security.

Among its upgraded features, you’ll find a hydraulic suspension fork, 4-inch puncture-protected tires with fenders over each, hydraulic disc brakes, a headlight and horn at its front, a taillight with brake lighting and turn signal lighting, an 8-speed Shimano Altus derailleur, and more. And pivoting back to its folding design, this model condenses even smaller than its predecessor to a 41.7-inch by 20.5-inch by 32.7-inch size.

Tesla universal wall connector EV chargers installed at home driveway with two vehicles parked

Tesla’s Universal Wall Connector with dual NACS + J1772 connectors and customizable 48A speeds retains $50 cut to $600

While Amazon’s ongoing Black Friday Week Sale is going strong, we noticed that the official Tesla storefront is retaining the price cut on its Universal Wall Connector at $600 shipped during this holiday season, with it also matching the price at Best Buy. Earlier in the year we saw the price on this model rise to $650, where it’s been keeping until the more recent $50 markdown brought costs lower, giving you some continued holiday shopping relief here. Sadly, we haven’t seen any similar markdowns on its standard wall connector that is keeping to $450 shipped, or its newer Gen 2 Wall Connector models starting from $1,399 shipped.

If you want to learn more about this universal EV charger, be sure to check out our original coverage of this ongoing price cut here.

man riding Hiboy TITAN electric scooter
man using Leviton smart 48A level 2 EV charger to power vehicle

Best Fall EV deals!

Best new Green Deals landing this week

The savings this week are also continuing to a collection of other markdowns. To the same tune as the offers above, these all help you take a more energy-conscious approach to your routine. Winter means you can lock in even better off-season price cuts on electric tools for the lawn while saving on EVs and tons of other gear.


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The Kia EV4 is delayed, but another EV is still quietly coming to the US

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8 hours ago

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November 26, 2025

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The Kia EV4 is delayed, but another EV is still quietly coming to the US

Kia-another-EV-US

The EV4 will sadly not arrive in the US as expected, but Kia said it’s still planning on launching another EV that’s expected to be an even bigger hit.

Kia confirms EV4 delay, says another EV is still US-bound

The EV4, Kia’s first electric sedan, was expected to launch in the US within the next few months, but that will no longer be the case.

Kia has indefinitely delayed the launch of the EV4 in the US due to policy changes under the Trump administration.

The loss of the $7,500 federal EV tax credit and added tariffs on Korean imports have forced Kia, like many others, to adjust their US lineup.

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According to Kia America’s marketing boss, Russel Wager, the EV4 is only a small part of the broader tariff-related impacts the Korean automaker is facing. Wager told Car and Driver on the sidelines of the LA Auto Show that the changes will likely impact other vehicles and prices.

Kia-EV4-US-delay
2026 Kia EV4 US-spec (Source: Kia)

When asked for specifics about why the EV4 is being pushed back, Wager said, “Can you give me the answer of when the tariffs are going to be resolved in Mexico, Canada, and Seoul? If you give me that answer, I’ll be as specific as possible.”

While the EV4 is delayed indefinitely, Wager suggested bringing the EV3 to the US, Kia’s compact SUV, is still part of the plan.

Kia-EV3-US
Kia EV3 (Source: Kia)

The Kia EV3 is already one of the most popular EVs in Europe and the UK’s best-selling retail electric car this year. Given the growing demand for smaller SUVs, the EV3 is expected to be an even bigger hit with US buyers than the EV4.

When it will launch in the US or how much it will cost remains up in the air until Kia gets a better idea of market conditions.

Kia-another-EV-US
The 2026 Kia EV9 (Source: Kia)

Kia’s EV sales plunged after the federal tax credit expired at the end of September. Sales of the EV6 and EV9 fell by 71% and 66% last month compared to October 2024.

According to Wager, the automaker won’t really know what demand looks like until February or March 2026, since the loss of the $7,500 credit likely pulled buyers forward.

Kia-EV3-US
Kia EV3 Air in Frost Blue (Source: Kia UK)

Kia is still ready to launch the EV4 in the US, but that’s only if the tariff situation stabilizes. Earlier this month, the US and South Korea agreed to reduce tariffs on imports from 25% to 15%.

“At that point in time we look at it and say, are we at 25 [percent], are we at 15—and then we can build our business case,” Wager said, adding, “It was originally designed and engineered when the tariffs were zero percent.”

The electric pickup that Kia announced just a few months ago may never make it to the US. Wager pointed to Ford halting F-150 Lightning production and reports that it could be scrapped altogether.

In the meantime, Kia is heavily discounting its current electric vehicles, offering a $10,000 customer cash bonus on every model. Or, you can opt for 0% financing for 72 months plus an extra $2,500 bonus cash. Kia’s sister company, Hyundai, is also offering generous discounts with IONIQ 5 leases starting at just $189 per month.

Interested in a test drive? We can help you get started. You can use our links below to find Kia and
Hyundai models in your area.


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