Hotel Hyundai: we take a look around the world’s first EV-powered hotel

Korean car maker Hyundai has unveiled a world-first hotel powered entirely by electric cars.

Hotel Hyundai is an off-grid getaway that uses the vehicle-to-load (V2L) capability of the firm’s Ioniq 5 EV to power everything from lights and coffee machines to a private outdoor cinema. The pop-up venue in Essex has been created as nearly half of people (46%) say sustainability is more important to them now when booking a holiday compared to five years ago.

The hotel, complete with restaurant and bar, was curated by restaurant critic and TV presenter Grace Dent, who said it offered a glimpse at how people will holiday in future as well as demonstrating the Ioniq 5’s innovation ability to send power from its battery to external devices.

Dent said: “We’re looking for unique, memorable stays more now than ever and this is a delicious blend of innovation, luxury and comfort that gets you thinking. With power coming from the car, where could Hotel Hyundai pop-up next? I’m excited for those staying with us to sample the sustainable, locally sourced menu as well as the equally fabulous cocktails, and of course to enjoy a good night’s sleep.”

The hotel is centred on a luxury cabin and set across three key areas. A luxurious guest suite within the cabin is packed with boutique hotel features and all the electric functions are powered by an Ioniq 5. Alongside the cabin is a bar and restaurant where the food and drink have been selected by Dent herself, plus a coffee bar powered by an EV. Finally, there is a private outdoor cinema with projector, speakers and even a popcorn maker powered by a car.

Ashley Andrew, managing director of Hyundai Motor UK, said: “Our award winning Ioniq 5 is able to power Hotel Hyundai using its V2L feature, where an adapter from the car provides a socket which domestic appliances can be plugged into. The whole experience demonstrates the practicality of this pioneering technology, and we hope the concept inspires more people to go off grid.”

The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is a five-seat family SUV that offers up to 315 miles of driving range from its 77kWh battery. As well as offering V2L capability, it also features some of the fastest charging rates in the world, able to add 70% charge in just 18 minutes.