LOOK: Hyundai testing all-electric Staria MPV

An electric version of the Hyundai Staria could soon make its debut

Remember when Hyundai revealed the ST-1 last year? It's essentially a commercial van based on the Staria but comes with a fully electric powertrain. No exact specifications were revealed at the time although given the practical applications it will attract, it's no wonder Hyundai decided to make the ST-1 a reality.

Fast forward a year later, Hyundai has been spotted testing what appears to be an electric version of the Staria. Based on a sighting by the Korean publication Mobility Post, the zero-emissions Staria was spotted with no camouflage which gives us a better look at the yet-to-be-revealed EV.

At first glance, the electric Staria almost looks the same as the ICE and hybrid versions. However, we noticed it lacks a grille at the front which indicates its zero-emissions powertrain. It also has what looks to be a charging port on the driver's side, along with a sign on the windshield that reads “Vehicle for Evaluation”.

As far as its electric powertrain is concerned, the Staria EV is expected to get the same system as the ST-1. That means it will likely be equipped with a single electric motor that puts out 217 PS that's powered by a 76.1 kWh battery pack. On a full charge, the EV has a range of up to 289 km which is good but could be better.

The Staria EV is expected to make its official debut later this year and is part of Hyundai's efforts to introduce more electric models in its lineup. By 2030, Hyundai plans to have an EV lineup of 21 models which aligns with the brand's mid-to-long-term goal of achieving an annual sales of over 2 million EVs.

Since Hyundai already offers the Staria Hybrid, perhaps it would only make sense to also offer the Staria EV in global markets like the Philippines. We'll be keeping our fingers crossed that Hyundai Motor Philippines Inc. makes that a reality.

Source: Clien via Mobility Post