Three marks concept first
Hyundai has unveiled the Concept Three, its first compact EV concept under the Ioniq sub-brand at IAA Mobility 2025 in Munich.
Representing the next step in its electrification journey, it signals the company’s future expansion into a new vehicle category, complementing its existing midsize and large electric models.
With Europe experiencing a surging demand for compact EVs, the concept draws on Hyundai’s “advanced electrification capabilities”.
Xavier Martinet, president and CEO of Hyundai Motor Europe, says: “With its compact dimensions and Art Of Steel design language, the Concept Three embodies our vision of delivering mobility that’s practical, accessible and emotionally resonant.”
Highlights of design
Art Of Steel transforms the strength and flexibility of steel into a “language of sculptural beauty”.
Inspired by Hyundai’s advanced steel technologies, the material’s “natural formability reveals flowing volumes and precise lines”.
The sculpted body creates enveloping forms using three main surfaces, while intersecting lines add visual tension. The aero-hatch profile delivers efficiency and a distinctive roofline combined with a vertical tailgate.
Parametric pixel lighting is featured on the front and rear of the Concept Three. The pixels are now more expressive.
The exterior has an anodised-effect finish. Lemon-tinted glass and matching wheels forge links between exterior and interior, while the cabin is defined by soft yellow and grey tones.
The concept sees the arrival of Mr Pix. This “symbolic” character is integrated throughout the car, offering playful storytelling through “hidden surprises” and interactive design elements.
Europe – a strategic market
Hyundai views Europe as a hub of innovation in the EV era, driven by its diverse cultures, advanced environmental policies and urban-focused mobility needs.
The region’s demand for compact, sustainable vehicles positions it at the centre of the company's global electrification goals. Nearly 80 per cent of Hyundais sold there are locally made.
Key elements of Hyundai’s electrification roadmap for Europe include an expanded EV portfolio by offering an electrified version of every model there by 2027 and releasing 21 global EVs by 2030.
The company is advancing hydrogen fuel-cell technology as a clean-energy solution for future mobility, and is transitioning European production facilities to renewable energy while extending the integration of recycled and sustainable materials into vehicle designs..
Presence at IAA Mobility
Hyundai says its participation at this year’s show in Munich marks a milestone by returning to Europe’s largest mobility event for the first time in four years.
With 750 exhibitors and about 500,000 visitors from 110 countries, the event “represents not just a showcase of mobility innovation but a critical platform for engaging with Europe’s largest EV market”.
IAA Mobility has evolved since 2021, transforming from a traditional car show to a city-wide event that spans from Munich’s Messe exhibition halls to open space in the city centre.
This format allows brands to directly engage with consumers, “making it a perfect stage for Hyundai’s ambition to lead Europe’s electrification movement”.
The marque’s line-up at the event included the Kona Electric, Ioniqs 5, 6 and 9, the Inster Cross, Concept Three and Insteroid.
