The new electrified models of the classic Santa Fe Hyundai model are expected to be launched in the upcoming year and a half. The two new hybrid models of Santa Fe will be the 48V mild hybrid and the full plug-in powertrain. This is only the start for Hyundai since the brand is aiming to range 16 new electrified car models by 2025 under the Hyundai and Kia brands. As part of the innovational plan of Hyundai aiming to supply the ever so growing demand for more eco-friendly alternatives, the two additional engine variants of Santa Fe are expected to make a debut on the international car market within the next 18 months at it was announced during the launch of the new SUV with seven seats in Barcelona.
There is no official confirmation for the UK just yet, although Hyundai already confirmed that the 2.2-litre diesel engine will be offered on the British market. The information leaves some questions about whether or not the other engine options – 184bhp 2.4-litre diesel and the 232bhp 2.0-litre petrol will be available anytime soon or at all. However, it is expected that both electrified models will reach the UK market.
Considering the interest showed by Hyundai and Kia brands in investing more and more into hybrid alternatives and the electrification plan for the next 7 years, there is no wonder that recently Hyundai announced the 48V hybrid version of the Tucson. As for a reference, the mild hybrid Santa Fe is expected to share its powertrain with this car which includes an output of 183bhp from the 2.0-litre CRDi engine and 16bhp from the 48V system supplied by a 0.44kWh battery.
Still, there is not much said or announced about the Santa Fe’s plug-in model but car experts discuss that it is unlikely that the car will use the same system as the already becoming popular Hyundai IONIQ Plug-in Hybrid mostly because of the significant size difference of both car models. However, if an existing power system is used, it is predicted that it will be most probably taken from the 2.0-litre petrol of the Kia Optima PHEV. The suggestion is that the plug-in hybrid model of Santa Fe will be able to achieve an electric-only range of 30 miles.
The current plug-in options offered by Hyundai and Kia at the moment are Optima PHEV, Niro PHEV, and IONIQ Plug-In Hybrid. However, it seems that the Korean brands have some major plans for the future of the electrified car models falling under their umbrella.