Regarding this article and Hyundai's new IMA (integrated modular system) platform, the addition of more density to allow longer range is a bonus, shifting to CATL's technology. Regarding the eM (800V) and the eS (400V) platforms, I do have an issue with the introduction of LPF technology as a cost cutting measure as Tesla already had issues with cold weather upon their recent introduction: "According to the Chinese electric car portal d1ev.com, more and more users are complaining about the insufficient range and charging power with the new LFP batteries." The standardization of the drive units (motors, inverters and transmission) I see as a good thing for cost and weight reduction: " Hyundai develops five electric motors with a 200mm core (and variable length). Inverters and transmissions will be integrated into a single drive unit. Four of the drive units (eM series for passenger cars) will be ready for 800 V battery system voltage, while the fifth eS drive unit (for purpose-built vehicles) is envisioned for 400 V system voltage. According to one of the slides, the efficiency of the new drive units will improve. The cost and weight are expected to decrease by respectively 35% and 30% (between 2030 and 2021)." And now my opinion regarding the "over the air updates" Yes, it will save driving to the dealer, but will owners be prepared if there is an issue with one of them (or downloading issues). Will it require a connection to a secure WIFI system, while the vehicle is parked? Hyundai expects 20 million cars to be connected to this "connected car service" by 2025, and we still can't get Bluelink to operate properly. Hyundai seems to be attempting to follow Tesla's lead in this area. "Hyundai Motor Group will invest 18 trillion won by 2030 in sectors such as the Global Software Center and R&D headquarters to further strengthen software capabilities for SDV development. The Group will also hire some of the world's best software developers and develop devices and services that prioritize UX to bring new experiences to the mobility market." Who is going to pay for that? Well, the price of a new car...of course This might be an indicator: "The Group will also offer FoD (Feature on Demand) services next year. This will give customers the ability to select and purchase functions and features that meet their needs and tastes, and the freedom to create vehicles that best match their lifestyles." Hopefully by doing this, Hyundai will keep affordability as a top priority, and the bells and whistles for those who have the means for that.
