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Hyundai Ioniq 5 in Cold-Weather Testing Proves It Needs a Rear Wiper

On September 29, 2021, AirShaper and A2MAC1 helped us demonstrate that the Ioniq 5 desperately needs a rear wiper. Hyundai said airflow alone would keep it clean, but that is not what the aerodynamic studies have shown. A2MAC1 bought an Ioniq 5 and shared pictures of the EV after running in winter conditions. They speak for themselves.
A2MAC1 shared what happens to the Hyundai Ioniq 5's rear glass in winter conditions 11 photos
Photo: A2MAC1
A2MAC1 shared what happens to the Hyundai Ioniq 5's rear glass in winter conditionsA2MAC1 shared what happens to the Hyundai Ioniq 5's rear glass in winter conditionsHyundai Ioniq 5 Aerodynamic Study by AirShaper and A2MAC1Hyundai Ioniq 5 Aerodynamic Study by AirShaper and A2MAC1Hyundai Ioniq 5 Aerodynamic Study by AirShaper and A2MAC1Hyundai Ioniq 5 Aerodynamic Study by AirShaper and A2MAC1Hyundai Ioniq 5 Aerodynamic Study by AirShaper and A2MAC1Hyundai Ioniq 5 Aerodynamic Study by AirShaper and A2MAC1Hyundai Ioniq 5 Aerodynamic Study by AirShaper and A2MAC1A2MAC1 3D Model of the Hyundai Ioniq 5 Reveals Grille to Collect Water
Without a wiper or washer, the rear glass turned into an opaque surface that offers the same visibility as a sheet metal component such as the hood. For those that own or want to buy an Ioniq 5, the message is clear. Either you forget about rear visibility and focus on driving only with the side rear-view mirrors, or you should have a cleaning kit for the back glass to wipe it manually every once in a while.

The irony that this involves is that people take rear glass wipers and washers for granted. We do not doubt that they will only realize the Ioniq 5 lacks these items after driving these EVs in winter conditions – as A2MAC1 did lately – or on rainy days.

As brilliant as this electric Hyundai is, it is not unlikely that the automaker will add a solution for that in a future refresh if its current customers complain about how the design currently is. Since the automaker stated that this decision was taken to preserve range, we wonder how the company may introduce it and still present the same or better range numbers.

Hyundai could ask ONE (Our Next Energy) for help to reduce the Ioniq 5’s battery pack. The battery startup claims to have made a Tesla Model S travel 752 miles on a single charge with a 203.7-kWh battery pack that fits where a 100-kWh unit used to be. If that is correct, it may show the Korean company how to do the same.
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About the author: Gustavo Henrique Ruffo
Gustavo Henrique Ruffo profile photo

Motoring writer since 1998, Gustavo wants to write relevant stories about cars and their shift to a sustainable future.
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