Hyundai recently made a big announcement regarding its new electric vehicle for the US market – the Ioniq 9. This three-row SUV is set to be manufactured at Hyundai’s factory in Georgia, showcasing the company’s commitment to expanding its presence in the electric vehicle market.
While other automakers may be hesitant to invest in electric vehicles due to slowing demand, Hyundai is forging ahead by introducing new vehicles in popular segments. The Ioniq 9 will be based on the Concept Seven, unveiled in 2021, and built on the Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), shared with other Hyundai models like the Ioniq 5 and Genesis GV60. By manufacturing the Ioniq 9 in the US, Hyundai also aims to qualify for the federal EV tax credit of $7,500, a strategic move to attract more customers.
Hyundai Motor President and CEO, Jae Hoon Chang, announced that a production version of the Ioniq 9 will be revealed at the upcoming Los Angeles Auto Show. This reveal presents an exciting opportunity for Hyundai to showcase the capabilities of this new electric SUV and generate interest among potential buyers. Additionally, Hyundai plans to increase its share of hybrids in its lineup, addressing the current shortage of hybrid vehicles in the North American market.
The Concept Seven was marketed as having a fast charging capability, allowing it to recharge from 10 percent to 80 percent in just 20 minutes, with a range of over 300 miles. However, Hyundai is already looking ahead to the future by exploring the development of Extended Range Electric Vehicles (EREVs) that could offer even greater range. With the potential for EREVs to achieve a range of over 560 miles when fully charged, Hyundai is pushing the boundaries of electric vehicle technology.
The Ioniq 9 is one of Hyundai’s most ambitious concepts yet, with a long wheelbase that exceeds that of renowned vehicles like the Cadillac Escalade. The imposing size of the Ioniq 9, characterized by its extra-tall grille, aligns it with the category of “dangerously large” vehicles, alongside other oversized SUVs and trucks. This design choice sets the Ioniq 9 apart and emphasizes Hyundai’s commitment to creating distinctive electric vehicles with a strong presence on the road.
Hyundai’s announcement of the Ioniq 9 represents a significant step in the company’s electrification strategy. By introducing a large electric SUV in the US market and exploring innovative technologies like EREVs, Hyundai is positioning itself as a major player in the evolving automotive landscape. The upcoming launch of the Ioniq 9 at the Los Angeles Auto Show is eagerly anticipated, offering a glimpse into the future of electric vehicles from Hyundai.