Hyundai is preparing to electrify its Staria people mover, as spy images reveal a prototype undergoing testing. The upcoming Hyundai Staria EV promises to bring battery power to the futuristic people mover, positioning it as a rival to European and Chinese electric vans.
What We Know So Far
Images shared by Autospy showcase a Hyundai Staria with a closed-off grille featuring a charging port, signaling its shift to an electric drivetrain. The test vehicle also sports the distinct headlights of the Korean-market Staria Lounge, each cluster showcasing eight rectangular elements.
One of the most noticeable design updates is the shortened rear overhang, setting the EV version apart from its petrol and diesel counterparts. This streamlined rear design was also revealed in a video by Healer TV, which confirmed the absence of a fuel filler door, eliminating the possibility of this being a plug-in hybrid model.
Battery and Range
According to a report from the Korea Economic Daily in June 2024, the Hyundai Staria EV will utilize an 84kWh nickel manganese cobalt (NCM) battery, providing an estimated range of 324km on a single charge. Production is expected to begin in Europe by the first half of 2026, with plans to sell the Staria EV in both Asia-Pacific and European markets, including Australia.
This electric version is expected to compete with:
The End of Hydrogen Plans?
The electric Staria appears to replace the previously discussed hydrogen-powered version. Hyundai had announced plans in 2021 for a hydrogen fuel-cell (FCEV) Staria by 2023, but this model never materialized.
Australia’s Staria Lineup
Currently, the Hyundai Staria is offered in Australia with two combustion engine options:
- 3.5-litre V6 petrol
- 2.2-litre turbo-diesel four-cylinder
The hybrid version, which uses a 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor for a combined output of 180kW, has yet to be confirmed for the Australian market.
Market Competition
In Australia, the Staria remains second to the Kia Carnival, the country’s best-selling people mover. In 2024, Hyundai sold 1363 Starias, compared to 10,080 Carnivals, of which 691 were hybrids.
The Staria’s cargo van variant performed better, ranking second in its segment with 3503 sales, behind the Toyota HiAce’s 12,082 units.
Hyundai Staria EV: A Game Changer?
With its futuristic design, electric powertrain, and practical features, the Hyundai Staria EV could be a significant contender in the growing electric people mover segment. The model’s arrival is set to provide Australian families and businesses with an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional vans.
Stay tuned as more details emerge ahead of its expected launch in 2026!
