New All-Electric Van Promises Spacious Design and Fast Charging
Hyundai has revealed the all-electric version of its Staria van, a move that brings zero-emission mobility to a vehicle known for its considerable interior space. This new model, designated Staria Electric, is set to debut in Europe and Korea, offering a blend of passenger and commercial utility with an emphasis on advanced technology and convenience. The unveiling comes as the automotive industry continues its shift towards electrification, with Hyundai leveraging its existing electric vehicle expertise.
Background and Timeline of Staria Electric
The Staria Electric was formally introduced on January 9, 2026, with subsequent reports and analyses appearing in early January 2026. The vehicle's development marks a significant step in expanding Hyundai's electric portfolio beyond its established Ioniq line. This new offering aims to cater to a broad audience, from families requiring ample seating to businesses seeking a practical electric van. Production is slated to occur at Hyundai's Ulsan plant in South Korea.
The Staria Electric's debut signifies Hyundai's expansion of its EV offerings into the van segment, targeting European and Korean markets initially.
Key Features and Technical Specifications
The Staria Electric is built on an 800-volt electrical architecture, a system also found in Hyundai's Ioniq electric cars, which supports rapid charging capabilities.
Battery and Motor: The van is equipped with an 84 kWh battery pack. It features a single electric motor producing 160 kW (approximately 215 horsepower), driving the front wheels.
Range and Charging: Hyundai claims a range of up to 249 miles for the Staria Electric. The vehicle incorporates a modern thermal management system for efficient battery conditioning, and its charging port is located at the front.
Seating Configurations: Two primary seating layouts will be available:
A seven-seat Luxury model.
A longer nine-seat Wagon model.
Towing Capacity: The E-Staria boasts a towing capacity of up to two tonnes.
Technology: Standard features include Hyundai's latest suite of advanced driver's aids and safety systems, along with its next-generation infotainment system (ccNC) supporting over-the-air (OTA) updates.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Electrical Architecture | 800-volt |
| Battery Capacity | 84 kWh |
| Motor Power | 160 kW (approx. 215 hp) |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Estimated Range | Up to 249 miles |
| Seating Options | 7-seat (Luxury), 9-seat (Wagon) |
| Towing Capacity | Up to 2 tonnes |
| Infotainment | Next-gen ccNC with OTA updates |
| Charging Port Location | Front |
| The specifications highlight a deliberate engineering choice to employ advanced EV architecture in a larger vehicle format. |
Design and Interior Focus
Hyundai has placed a strong emphasis on the interior design of the Staria Electric, aiming to enhance comfort and utility. The arrangement of space is a core aspect of its design approach, promoting stable and relaxed driving, especially on longer journeys. This focus on interior layout is intended to serve both private and commercial use cases.
| The Staria Electric's interior design is presented as a significant differentiator, moving beyond typical van utilitarianism. |
Market Introduction and Availability
The Staria Electric is initially launching in Europe and Korea. Hyundai has indicated that other markets will follow. Specific price announcements for each region are expected closer to the vehicle's release. The company positions the Staria Electric as a versatile multipurpose vehicle suitable for a range of applications.
The immediate launch is confirmed for Europe and Korea, with subsequent rollouts planned for additional regions.
Expert Insights on Staria Electric's Role
Xavier Martinet, president and chief executive of Hyundai Motor Europe, stated that the Staria Electric "combines STARIA’s impressive space and flexibility with a new, fast-charging, high-voltage system and updated interior to deliver practical, efficient electric mobility for real-world use across Europe." This highlights the strategy of integrating established platform strengths with new EV technologies. The vehicle's 800-volt architecture is particularly noted as a valuable feature, bringing performance characteristics of passenger EVs to a larger vehicle segment.
"STARIA Electric brings our EV expertise to a vehicle that many customers already know and trust, combining STARIA’s impressive space and flexibility with a new, fast-charging, high-voltage system and updated interior to deliver practical, efficient electric mobility for real-world use across Europe." - Xavier Martinet, President and Chief Executive, Hyundai Motor Europe
| Martinet's statement underscores the objective to merge familiarity with advanced electric capabilities for a practical user experience. |
Conclusion and Future Implications
The unveiling of the Hyundai Staria Electric marks a clear commitment from the manufacturer to extend its electric vehicle strategy into the practical, high-capacity segment. By equipping the Staria with an 800-volt system, a substantial battery, and a focus on interior comfort and technology, Hyundai is positioning the vehicle as a competitive option for both private and commercial users in its initial European and Korean markets. The availability of different seating configurations and a notable towing capacity further broaden its appeal.
The Staria Electric represents Hyundai's methodical expansion into the EV van market, integrating established design principles with contemporary electric propulsion and charging technology.
Sources Used:
Hyundai Motor Europe Press Release: Details the unveiling of the Staria Electric, its features, and market positioning for Europe.
Link:
https://www.hyundai.news/eu/articles/press-releases/hyundai-staria-electric-debut.htmlPublished: January 9, 2026
Car Magazine Article: Provides an overview of the electric Staria, its platform, charging capabilities, and range, specifically mentioning its European availability.
Link:
https://www.carmagazine.co.uk/car-news/first-official-pictures/hyundai/staria-electric/Published: January 9, 2026
New Atlas Article: Reports on the Staria Electric MPV, covering its battery, motor, safety features, infotainment, and production details for Korean and European variants.
Link:
https://newatlas.com/automotive/hyundai-staria-electric-mpv/Published: January 12, 2026
Electrive.com Article: Focuses on Hyundai's electric Staria, highlighting its fast-charging capabilities, seating options, and interior design emphasis for its launch in Europe and Korea.
Link:
https://electrive.com/2026/01/09/hyundai-unveils-electric-staria-with-fast-charging-capabilities/Published: January 9, 2026
EV Magz Article: Covers the all-electric Staria van's unveiling ahead of its European and Korean launch, detailing its motor, positioning, production, and the significance of its 800-volt architecture.
Link:
https://evmagz.com/hyundai-unveils-all-electric-staria-van-ahead-of-european-and-korean-launch/Published: January 11, 2026
Note: Article 1 from The Hindu was not directly relevant to the Hyundai Staria Electric and pertains to horse racing.