Inside Hyundai’s car-powered pop-up hotel with stunning views and outdoor cinema

THE world’s first car-powered hotel has opened to the public – with all power supplied by electric vehicles for a true off grid experience.

Situated in Ongar, Essex, the secluded accommodation is the perfect location for a quiet escape to the countryside.

Guests can enjoy a local menu and mixology curated using innovative and sustainable ingredients sourced within Essex, as well as visiting the outdoor bar or enjoying freshly brewed coffee with views of the forest.

An outdoor cinema at the hotel will also give guests the opportunity to kick-back, relax and unwind.

The new concept, Hotel Hyundai was launched by the car brand alongside broadcaster and critic Grace Dent, after research of 2,000 holidaymakers found 44 per cent would like to go on more staycations in 2023 compared to 2022.

With adults citing sustainability (25 per cent), supporting local businesses (27 per cent) and stress-free travel (27 per cent) among the things they enjoy about a UK-based holiday.

The whole experience is powered through the IONIQ 5’s V2L feature, which harnesses the car’s electricity to power other appliances through an adaptor.

Grace Dent, curator of the hotel concept 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.

“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.

“I hope this three-week pop-up hotel is just the start for this concept of a car plugging in and powering a luxury experience like this.

“I’m predicting that guests will be hoping that this amazing hotel and the full experience it offers might be here again in 2023.”

The study also found 28 per cent prefer a staycation over a holiday abroad compared to five years ago, and 16 per cent agreed they’re good value for money.

More than three in 10 (31 per cent) said staycations are better for shorter breaks away, with 30 per cent enjoying all the UK countryside has to offer.

While 26 per cent like to vacation in their home country as it’s less stressful than international trips.

It also emerged 55 per cent said the cost-of-living crisis has made them rethink their future holiday plans.

And, as a result, 53 per cent would also like to invest their holiday spend in local UK economies rather than abroad.

In a bid to cut further costs, 30 per cent would like to take a break outside of school holidays.

Within the last 12 months, those surveyed have been on two UK-based trips away from home, with 15 per cent going on four or more.

The research, conducted via OnePoll, also found half agreed nothing beats a holiday in the great British countryside.

Hotel charge

When taking trips closer to home, 41 per cent prioritise value for money when booking accommodation and 39 per cent want somewhere which is spick and span.

Ashley Andrew from Hyundai Motor UK, said: “This hotel concept has been possible thanks to IONIQ 5 and the supply of power via the 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.”

Hotel Hyundai is open for 14 nights from October 19 to November 5. Members of the public will be able to win a stay at the hotel concept.

The competition will run from October 6 until October 19 and applicants can choose three preferable dates.