Hyundai is on a roll, best illustrated by its bold and constant stream of concept cars. From the cyberpunk Insteroid to the retro-futuristic N Vision 74, the Korean manufacturer has experimented with multiple genres. Their latest creation is the all-electric Concept Three, looking every inch the hot hatch of tomorrow.

Unveiled at the IAA Mobility Show, Hyundai says the Concept Three previews the first car of a new Ioniq sub-brand, and is a part of a strategy to launch 21 EV models globally by 2030. Given the clear hints of Veloster in the bodywork, we’re likely getting a glimpse of a future Renault 5 rival.

Encouragingly, the Three sports some compact dimensions, standing at 4,287mm long, 1,940mm wide and 1,428mm tall, making it a foot longer than the current MINI Electric, but the same width and height. 

The Veloster influence is most apparent from the rear-three-quarter view, with a similar attempt to blur the lines between hatch and compact coupé. The fat C-pillar and ‘Aero Hatch’ profile are sawn-off with a vertical tailgate in a familiar manner, with the Three adding a see-through ducktail as part of the glasshouse. Underneath sits a giant rear diffuser. 

At the opposite end, the sloping bonnet and narrow pixelated headlights evoke the first generation Honda CR-X. In profile, a trio of prominent slash cuts grant the concept its name, while access is granted via suicide doors. 

Inside, the interior is dominated by the Moonbeam Yellow colour palette that also tints the windows and five-spoke alloys, mixed with purple ambient lighting. Rather than an instrument binnacle, the Concept Three relies on eight individual square screens that look like apps on a smartphone.

The rest of the interior is pared back, with a circular transmission tunnel separating four deep bucket seats. As is the trend, the interior makes use of sustainable materials such as recycled wool, plastics and lightweight aluminium foam. 

Xavier Martinet, President and CEO of Hyundai Motor Europe, commented: “Concept Three represents the next step in Hyundai Motor’s electrification journey. With its compact dimensions and Art of Steel design language, it embodies our vision of delivering mobility that is practical, accessible and emotionally resonant.” 

No powertrain details have been released with the concept, but it doesn’t preclude us from envisioning the car in the Performance Blue paint of the N division, complete with a set of e-Shift paddles.