Hyundai is making a significant impact in the electric vehicle market with its latest announcement of the Ioniq 9, a three-row SUV set to be manufactured at the company’s factory in Georgia. This demonstrates Hyundai’s commitment to expanding its presence in the plug-in market while other automakers hesitate to make similar investments due to slowing demand.
The Ioniq 9 and Its Features
The Ioniq 9 is based on the Concept Seven, a concept initially unveiled in 2021. Built on Hyundai’s Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), the same platform used for models like the Ioniq 5, Ioniq 6, Kia EV6, Kia EV9, and Genesis GV60, the Ioniq 9 promises to offer a compelling blend of performance and sustainability. Hyundai plans to manufacture the Ioniq 9 at its Ellabel, GA-based Metaplant, where production of the Ioniq 5 will also soon commence, taking advantage of federal EV tax credits available for vehicles assembled in the US.
During an investor day conference, Hyundai Motor President and CEO Jae Hoon Chang revealed that a production version of the Ioniq 9 will be showcased at the Los Angeles Auto Show later this year. Additionally, Hyundai aims to boost its market share by increasing the availability of hybrids in its lineup, recognizing the preference of US consumers for hybrid vehicles over fully electric ones. Hyundai is particularly targeting the North American market, which is experiencing a shortage of hybrids that the company hopes to address with its expanded offerings.
The Concept Seven, upon which the Ioniq 9 is based, was promoted as having the ability to charge from 10 percent to 80 percent in just 20 minutes, with a range exceeding 300 miles. However, Hyundai is not resting on its laurels and is exploring the development of Extended Range Electric Vehicles (EREVs) to offer even greater range. Some EREVs, such as the BMW i3 and Chevy Volt, utilize small gas engines for battery pack recharging without directly powering the motors. Hyundai’s executives are envisioning EREVs with a range surpassing 560 miles when fully charged, according to reports.
Size and Design Implications
The Concept Seven, and by extension, the Ioniq 9, represents a bold step by Hyundai, featuring a wheelbase extending 10.5 feet, making it longer than the Cadillac Escalade. The imposing presence of the concept, including its extra-tall grille, places it in the category of “dangerously large” vehicles alongside oversized SUVs and trucks. Hyundai’s decision to venture into this segment signals a departure from conventional electric vehicle designs and highlights the company’s ambition to cater to diverse consumer preferences.
Hyundai’s upcoming Ioniq 9 exemplifies the brand’s determination to push boundaries and offer innovative electric vehicles tailored to the needs of the US market. By combining cutting-edge technology with bold design elements, Hyundai is poised to make a significant impact in the competitive electric SUV segment.
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