Tesla vs. Hyundai: which electric car is more convenient and economical

Tim Levine, who covers the automotive industry and the global transition to electric vehicles, has driven electric SUVs from Tesla and Hyundai - and he'd choose the $5 Ioniq 41 for its ultra-fast charging and futuristic looks, reports Insider.

Photo: IStock

Tesla got Americans interested in electric cars. But that's far from the only option now that global automakers are taking electrification seriously.

One of the hottest battery-powered cars that Elon Musk hasn't sold is the Hyundai Ioniq 5 SUV. It offers many of the same compelling qualities as the Tesla - a minimalist interior, impressive range, and cutting-edge technology - in a stunning cyberpunk package.

How does the novelty differ from the popular Tesla Y model? Levin drove both SUVs to find out.

Which is cheaper?

Hyundai starts at $41 for a 450 model, compared to $2023 for a Tesla.

Opting for the Ioniq 5, with better finishes and optional all-wheel drive, brings the price closer to Tesla levels. The 2022 Limited AWD that Levin tested was $56.

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“Tesla has one big advantage: Because it sells directly to consumers without dealerships, the price you see online is the price you pay,” Levine says.

What about distances?

The Model Y has a high range rating of 530 km. And this is with standard all-wheel drive, draining the battery.

Ioniq 5: Estimates range from 350 km for the cheapest model to 480 km for the model with a larger battery and rear-wheel drive. All-wheel drive models - 411 km.

How fast do they charge?

The Ioniq 5 can use powerful 350 kilowatt fast charging stations to charge from 10% to 80% in 18 minutes. It's very good for long trips if you can find a charger.

The same charge will take the Tesla Y 30 minutes. But Tesla owners get access to the company's extensive Supercharger network, making charging easier.

How do they drive?

The Model Y's quick steering and thrilling acceleration will spice up the commute, Levin says. The Hyundai isn't as exciting, but it's still fast and makes it easy to cover distances (in all-wheel drive). It rides more comfortably than a stiff Tesla.

What about interior space?

Building a car from scratch without a transmission, engine or gas tank allowed Tesla and Hyundai to offer flat floors, extra cargo space and thoughtful features.

The highlight of Hyundai's open and uncluttered cabin is that the center console can be moved back to make room for a backpack. Overall, the Tesla is more spacious, helped by a front trunk and a massive underfloor trunk in the back.

Both models have the minimalist, tech look pioneered by Tesla, but Hyundai offers more physical controls and a smaller screen.

How to compare technologies?

"Tesla has been called smartphones on wheels ad nauseum, but that's the best way to describe it," Levine says.

The Model Y's 15-inch touchscreen controls everything from the windshield wipers to the glovebox, and offers cool extras like games, Netflix, and the ability to listen to music outside the car. The elegant app allows owners to control their car remotely and use their phone as a key.

Tesla dispenses with almost all of the usual buttons, which may turn some buyers off.

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Ioniq 5 is also technologically advanced, equipped with two 12-inch screens and an optional display projected onto the windshield. It has two household outlets for charging laptops.

Verdict

“There is no objective winner here. Both are great options for buyers with different priorities, says Levine. - I would choose the Hyundai because it charges surprisingly quickly and is almost in the Tesla range, but starts at a more affordable price. It also feels cutting-edge without cramming too many core functions into the touchscreen menus. The stunning retro-futuristic look is a plus for the Ioniq 5”.

“However, buyers who prefer iPhone-level technology, sporty driving characteristics, a larger cabin and an incredible Supercharger network will feel right at home in Model Y,” Levine said.

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