Despite being pocket-sized and a much smaller member of the big electric family, the Concept THREE was revealed at the 2025 IAA Mobility Show in Munich. Hyundai did not let the smaller-sized model deter their ambitious stance. Redefining how motorists engage with cars, Concept THREE is all about simplicity that unveils what Hyundai really thinks about in-car technology. This compact vehicle is making Hyundai’s intentions bolder and clearer.
A much more compact future of the IONIQ brand
In asserting the future direction for the IONIQ brand, Hyundai’s Concept THREE is so much more than a compact vehicle. In Hyundai’s electric brand, it is the first compact model that seeks to enhance user experience. Hyundai’s “Art of Steel” philosophy is kept in mind in terms of the vehicle’s design and bodywork. Cleaner lines and overall simplicity do not take away from the fact that the Concept THREE exudes momentum.
Concept THREE reinvigorates the hatchback electrical era. Putting forth a new silhouette redefines the electric era, whilst staying true to practicality. Hyundai was able to put human-centered functioning at the core of this futuristic EV.
“The design process was a chance to rethink the compact EV from the ground up.” Simon Loasby, Head of Hyundai’s Design Center.
Purity and simplicity are adjectives that come to mind when describing this futuristic EV, which surely is joining the IONIQ brand rather confidently.
Concept THREE moving away from set tech standards
While the EV does not fall short on futuristic appeal, the team at Hyundai has drifted away from modern automotive tech standards. The move was taken as Hyundai wished to prevent the issue of drivers relying far too much on touchscreens.
Using research, Hyundai found that many modern drivers find it tedious to scroll through touch screens to find information about adjusting the climate settings or even to find a song that they long for. People are feeling stressed due to technical complexities, and they are looking for a simpler fix.
In an age of instant gratification, drivers are looking to perform simple tasks effortlessly without having to study technological offerings first. While Hyundai is not completely saying goodbye to technology with Concept THREE, it is emphasizing physical control for much-needed functions. Digital interfaces become necessary for entertainment and more specialized settings. Hyundai, however, is seeking to ensure that the driver of the EV is put back in control of the vehicle.
Newest Hyundai model embraces more dated design principles
While still a concept, Concept THREE is expected to join the IONIQ lineup in 2026, and thus far, the full specs have not been unveiled. The vehicle’s offering, however, will ensure faster charging times and perhaps more scalable battery options.
Hyundai is strategically re-entering the electric mobility realm in both urban Asia and Europe with this car. Practicality, usability, and that human touch are all features promised by Hyundai’s latest EV concept. Hyundai’s compact car is showing the world that smaller can very well be smarter and simpler. Hyundai does, however, stay true to its roots with this EV and the brand has also introduced a mythical comeback vehicle from 1974.
Hyundai remains at the forefront of innovative genius
Despite being compact, Hyundai’s Concept THREE is an ambitious move by the automaker. For this vehicle, an Aero Hatch design and intuitive controls were purposefully chosen. The concept car is not being put onto the mobility scene to make a loud noise but to challenge the realm of modernized EVs. With user experience being taken into consideration, Hyundai is putting the power back in the hands of drivers and showing its position in terms of being a rebellious and innovative automaker. Anticipation surely is building faster as Hyundai’s IONIQ is proposing the same genius for Concept THREE as it put forward for the iconic N line.
