I was behind the wheel of one of the coolest EV's on the market...yup, and its backed by Mickey Mouse...kinda. In an unprecedented collaboration, Hyundai has teamed up with Walt Disney Imagineering to create a truly magical vehicle: the IONIQ 5 Disney100 Platinum Edition. This limited-edition model is more than just a car; it's a celebration of Disney's century-long legacy of innovation and creativity, combined with Hyundai's cutting-edge automotive technology. The result is a unique, collectible EV that offers a driving experience like no other.
A Legendary Collaboration: Hyundai Meets Disney Magic
First introduced as a concept car at the 2023 New York Auto Show, the IONIQ 5 Disney100 Platinum Edition quickly captivated the hearts of car enthusiasts and Disney fans alike. This collaboration marks the first time that Hyundai's vehicle designers have joined forces with the creative minds at Walt Disney Imagineering to produce a vehicle that embodies the spirit of both brands.
But the collaboration goes beyond just the design of the car. To celebrate the release of this limited-edition model, Hyundai and Disney are launching the Platinum Road Trip Social Series. This exciting new series, developed by Disney Partnership Marketing, stars actors and Disney family members Josh Peck and John Stamos. The duo will embark on a road trip in the IONIQ 5 Disney100 Platinum Edition, visiting iconic locations that have played a significant role in Disney's storied history. The series will premiere on January 23, offering fans a unique opportunity to explore Disney's past while experiencing the future of electric vehicles.
“We are honored to have joined Disney in the celebration of its 100th anniversary,” said Angela Zepeda, chief marketing officer, Hyundai Motor America. “From all-new ads featuring iconic Disney movie scenes to the introduction of a vehicle with visual creative input from Walt Disney Imagineering, together our brands illustrated there can be magic in every journey. We look forward to further collaboration with the beloved Disney brand through our shared commitment to inspiring joy and innovation.”
Exterior Magic: A Visual Feast for the Eyes
The IONIQ 5 Disney100 Platinum Edition is a visual masterpiece that seamlessly blends Hyundai's futuristic design with Disney's iconic imagery. Priced at $59,400, this limited-edition EV is sure to turn heads wherever it goes.
One of the most striking features of this vehicle is its 260-mile all-electric range, powered by a 74 kW + 165 kW motor that delivers an impressive 320 horsepower. This powertrain ensures that the car is as powerful as it is beautiful. The Disney100-exclusive 20-inch alloy wheels, adorned with unique design elements, add a touch of sophistication and flair to the car's overall appearance. Special badges and debossing are scattered throughout the exterior, making it clear that this vehicle is part of the Disney100 celebration. The front headrest and center console armrest are marked with the Disney100 Platinum Edition debossing, adding a subtle yet elegant touch to the interior.
Interior Enchantment: Where Innovation Meets Nostalgia
Step inside the IONIQ 5 Disney100 Platinum Edition, and you'll find yourself immersed in a world where innovation meets nostalgia. The interior is nothing short of extraordinary, featuring a "floating" screen for the driver and a seamlessly designed infotainment and entertainment center. These features are not just functional—they are a testament to the meticulous design philosophy that guided the creation of this vehicle.
Every detail inside the cabin has been carefully crafted to reflect Disney's influence. The Disney100 Platinum Edition badges are strategically placed in the middle storage location, and even the door handles feature the iconic Mickey Mouse ears. The floor mats are Disney100-exclusive, adding a whimsical touch to the luxurious interior.
Beyond the aesthetic touches, the IONIQ 5 Disney100 Platinum Edition is packed with features that enhance both comfort and safety. New standard features include rear seat side airbags, rear outboard seatbelt pretensioners, and steering wheel haptic feedback for the lane-keeping and blind-spot warning systems. In-car Wi-Fi capability (subscription required) ensures that you're always connected, while the digital rearview mirror offers a modern solution for clearer, safer driving.
The Drive: Power and Performance: totally unique
While the IONIQ 5 Disney100 Platinum Edition dazzles with its design, it's on the road where this vehicle truly shines. The driving experience is nothing short of magical, with lightning-quick acceleration and powerful torque that make every journey an adventure. The car moves with the grace and speed of a jet, offering 320 horsepower and 446 lb-ft of torque. Hyundai's HTRAC all-wheel-drive system ensures that the car handles smoothly in all types of environments, whether you're navigating city streets or cruising down the highway.
Powertrain and Battery: The Heart of the IONIQ 5
At the core of the IONIQ 5 Disney100 Platinum Edition is its advanced electric powertrain. The vehicle is equipped with an EM07/EM17 permanent magnet synchronous motor, powered by a nickel-cobalt-manganese lithium battery with a gross capacity of 58–84 kWh. This setup provides the IONIQ 5 with an impressive electric range of up to 303 miles (488 kilometers) on a single charge, making it a strong competitor in the EV market.
One of the standout features of the IONIQ 5 is its ultra-rapid charging capability. The vehicle can charge at up to 225 kW DC, allowing drivers to go from 10% to 80% battery in just 18 minutes under optimal conditions. This makes long road trips in the IONIQ 5 not only feasible but enjoyable. To protect the battery and maximize efficiency, it's recommended to charge the vehicle to 80% rather than a full 100%.
The 2024 Hyundai IONIQ 5 is also set to receive a substantial upgrade, including a new 84 kWh battery, replacing the previous 77.4 kWh version. Additionally, a new sports variant will be introduced, positioning it as a strong competitor to the Tesla Model Y.
Versatile Charging Capabilities: Ready for Anything
One of the Hyundai IONIQ 5's most significant advantages is its versatile charging capabilities.
Unlike some EVs that are restricted to specific charging networks, the IONIQ 5 can be charged in multiple ways. You can plug into a standard 120V AC outlet at your home, which, although slower, offers the convenience of overnight charging. The vehicle comes with a portable 120V charging cord, allowing you to charge from a regular household outlet. This cord has an adjustable power output from 6 amps to 12 amps, set to 6 amps from the factory. Starting in 2025, the IONIQ 5 will also have access to the Tesla Supercharger network, further expanding its charging options and making it easier than ever to stay powered up on long trips.
Driving Dynamics: A Smooth and Engaging Ride
Driving the IONIQ 5 Disney100 Platinum Edition is an experience like no other. The vehicle's powertrain delivers smooth but rapid acceleration, offering a responsive and engaging driving experience. Whether you're navigating city streets or cruising down the highway, the IONIQ 5 delivers strong, quiet, and comfortable performance.
Inside the cabin, you'll find a range of features designed to enhance your driving experience. The 1st and 2nd row fixed glass sunroof floods the cabin with natural light, creating an open and airy atmosphere. The H-Tex leatherette seat trim, coupled with driver and passenger lumbar support, ensures that even long drives are a pleasure. The 20" machined aluminum wheels with painted accents add to the vehicle's robust yet refined aesthetic, while key features like remote keyless entry, rain-sensing windshield wipers, and Remote Smart Parking Assist (RSPA) make the IONIQ 5 Disney100 Platinum Edition as convenient as it is thrilling to drive.
Efficiency and Range: Maximizing Every Mile
The IONIQ 5 Disney100 Platinum Edition is not just about power and performance—it's also about efficiency. The vehicle's advanced battery management system helps maximize range, ensuring that you get the most out of every charge. The easiest way to extend the driving range of your IONIQ 5 is to drive more efficiently. Quick acceleration utilizes more energy than getting up to speed more gradually, and hard braking also wastes energy. By driving smoothly and anticipating traffic conditions, you can significantly extend your vehicle's range.
Sales Success: A Record-Breaking Year for Hyundai EVs
The IONIQ 5 has been a tremendous success for Hyundai, setting new sales records in 2024. As of July 2024, Hyundai has sold 18,728 IONIQ 5 models through the first half of the year, an increase of 37% over the previous year. The IONIQ 5 wasn't Hyundai's only EV with a new sales record; the Hyundai IONIQ 6 also set a new Q2 sales record, with 3,266 models sold, an 8% year-over-year increase. Overall, Hyundai's EV sales climbed 15% in Q2, further solidifying the brand's position as a leader in the electric vehicle market.
The Ultimate Fusion of Innovation and Imagination
The IONIQ 5 Disney100 Platinum Edition is more than just a tribute to Disney's 100-year legacy; it's a celebration of what's possible when innovation meets imagination. Whether you're a Disney enthusiast, a car collector, or simply someone who appreciates the finer things in life, this vehicle offers something truly special. From its stunning exterior to its thoughtfully designed interior and unparalleled driving performance, the IONIQ 5 Disney100 Platinum Edition is a magical journey waiting to be experienced.
Platinum Road Trip Social Series -The social series features four 2–4-minute episodes on the Disney YouTube channel, with new episodes being released throughout the week starting Jan. 23.
The series will also be supported by 30-second advertisements on Disney and Hulu, plus additional social content across YouTube, Instagram and Facebook such as photos, behind the scenes content, running vehicle footage and more.
This historic collaboration following along with John Stamos and Josh Peck on their Platinum Road Trip adventure. This limited-edition vehicle is a testament to the enduring power of Disney's magic, now brought to life in a whole new way by Hyundai.
Throughout the trip, John and Josh will discuss Disney history and offer viewers an exclusive, closer look at the limited-edition, first-of-its-kind car, while they tour historic Disney locations including:
The Walt Disney Company Studio Lot
Tam O’Shanter restaurant
Griffith Park
Palm Springs Air Museum
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