While Hyundai continues the development and real-world testing of the Staria Electric multi-purpose vehicle (MPV), a new set of images showing a completely undisguised Staria model has surfaced on the South Korean forum Clien. The model features a new front painted in black, while the rest of the car is grey — a characteristic trait of Hyundai test prototypes, which often feature unfinished parts.
Expansion of Hyundai’s Electric Vehicle Portfolio
The Staria Electric, set to be manufactured on Line 1 of Ulsan Plant 4, is part of Hyundai’s larger strategy to expand its electric vehicle lineup to 21 models by 2030. This effort aligns with the company’s mid-to-long-term goal of achieving annual sales of over 2 million electric vehicles. The transition to producing EVs is also driven by increasingly stringent environmental policies, particularly in Europe, where zero-emission vehicles are becoming a necessity for urban operations.
Staria: A Versatile MPV with Growing Demand
First launched in 2021 as the successor to the Starex, the Staria MPV has been a versatile and highly functional vehicle. It offers various seating configurations for 7 to 11 passengers and includes specialized models such as cargo vans, limousines, ambulances, and wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
The Staria lineup has been met with growing demand:
- In 2022, Hyundai sold 39,780 units of the Staria.
- In 2023, sales reached 37,769 units by November, representing a 4.2% year-over-year increase.
- Annual sales for 2023 are projected to surpass 40,000 units for the first time.
Initially offered in diesel and LPG versions, the Staria lineup was enhanced with a hybrid model introduced in February 2023. The upcoming electric version will further strengthen its appeal in a market increasingly leaning toward sustainable options.
Meeting Global Environmental Standards
The decision to develop and produce the Staria Electric reflects Hyundai’s proactive response to stricter environmental regulations worldwide. With cities in Europe and beyond tightening restrictions on internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, the demand for zero-emission options is rising sharply. Hyundai aims to be at the forefront of this transition, ensuring its vehicles meet and exceed these standards.
Driving Toward a Sustainable Future
Hyundai’s investment in electric vehicle production underscores its commitment to sustainability and innovation. By diversifying its EV offerings and expanding production capacity, the company is well-positioned to meet the evolving needs of consumers and global regulatory demands.