Kona Electric

Make
Hyundai
Segment
SUV

While the 2019 Frankfurt Auto Show will be dominated with new model reveals from German automakers such as BMW, Mercedes, and Audi, Hyundai will also have a strong presence at the show. Its standout debut will be a new retro-inspired concept called the 45 Concept.

Little is known about the concept, but Hyundai says the design is inspired by the automaker's first model in the 1970s, the Pony, and will preview the automaker's future EV design direction. Hyundai has already shown the concept's wedge-shaped rear, but this new image gives us a better look at the car's overall shape and a glimpse of the front-end.

The front of the car can be seen in a reflection revealing a sloping hood and an LED light bar that can project different graphics. The Hyundai 45 Concept also appears to take the form of an electric three-door hatchback, so it could preview a potential Honda e rival. Like Honda's electric hatchback, the 45 Concept's design looks minimalist and modern, and there are no traditional door mirrors.

It will also have a highly customizable interior, as Hyundai has said the concept envisions a future where people have "more freedom to design their cars in a way similar to how people design their homes." Powertrain details remain a mystery, but we'll learn more on September 10 when the Hyundai 45 Concept debuts at Frankfurt.

This won't be the only Hyundai concept that will debut at the show, either. Hyundai Motorsport will also be showing off its first-ever fully electric race car showcasing "Hyundai's high-performance capabilities, green technology credentials and unwavering passion for motorsport." Details are scarce, but a teaser video released last month hints at the electric race car's blistering performance. The all-new Hyundai i10 will also make its world debut.