Ioniq 5

Make
Hyundai
Segment
SUV

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq was just revealed as the latest affordable model to challenge Tesla's dominance as the world's largest electric automaker. This vehicle packs many interesting features, including impressive performance specs from either a 58-kWh or 72.6-kWh battery pack. Hyundai says the all-wheel-drive model produces 301 horsepower and 446 lb-ft of torque, enabling a sprint to 62 mph in 5.2 seconds.

Though it lacks a Tesla Model 3 Performance's speed, the Ioniq 5 is pretty quick in a straight line. It will be pretty swift around corners, too, as EV Pulse noticed an interesting detail when examining the car's unique wheels. Hyundai's detail shots clearly reveal a Michelin logo, meaning the Ioniq 5 may use the company's latest Pilot Sport EV tires.

EV Pulse reached out to Michelin for comment, but the company said it could not announce OEM fitments for the new product. The Michelin Pilot Sport EV was developed specifically for electric vehicles using knowledge gathered in Formula E. These tires use Michelin's new ElectricGrip Compound, which is harder at the tread center to provide more grip and less wear. Michelin says these tires can increase the driving range up to 37 miles, thanks to low rolling resistance.

Hyundai has yet to confirm what tires will come on the Ioniq 5, but we know the larger 20-inch wheels will include 255/45 R20 rubber.

This is significantly wider than key rivals like the Ford Mustang Mach E (225/55 R19) and Volkswagen ID.4 (235/50 R20).

The added tire width could help the Ioniq 5 handle better than its key rivals while also retaining range. Hyundai estimates the car will travel 470 to 480 kilometers, which translates to roughly 292 to 298 miles in two-wheel-drive configuration with the larger battery. The EPA estimated range is expected to be much lower at around 220 miles, though the Michelin tires could theoretically pull that number to over 250 miles.