Hyundai, known for its innovative electric vehicle lineup, is set to introduce the Ioniq 9, a three-row SUV that will be manufactured at the company’s factory in Georgia. This announcement comes at a time when other automakers are hesitant to invest in electric vehicles due to slowing demand. Hyundai, on the other hand, is taking strides to expand its share of the plug-in market by introducing new vehicles in popular segments. The Ioniq 9 will be based on the Concept Seven, which was first revealed in 2021, and will be built on the Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP).
The Ioniq 9 will be produced at Hyundai’s Metaplant in Ellabel, GA, where the company will also manufacture the Ioniq 5. By assembling electric vehicles in the US, Hyundai will qualify for the federal EV tax credit of $7,500. According to Hyundai Motor President and CEO Jae Hoon Chang, a production version of the Ioniq 9 will be showcased at the Los Angeles Auto Show later this year. The Concept Seven was advertised as having a range of “over 300 miles” and the ability to charge from 10 percent to 80 percent in about 20 minutes.
Future Plans: Extended Range Electric Vehicles
In addition to the Ioniq 9, Hyundai is exploring the development of Extended Range Electric Vehicles (EREVs) to offer even more range. Some EREVs, like the BMW i3 and Chevy Volt, use small gas engines to recharge the battery pack without operating the motors. Hyundai executives have expressed interest in producing EREVs with a range of over 560 miles when fully charged, aiming to push the boundaries of electric vehicle technology.
The Concept Seven showcases Hyundai’s bold design language, with a wheelbase longer than the Cadillac Escalade. The extra-tall grille of the Ioniq 9 sets it apart as a “dangerously large” vehicle, joining the ranks of oversized SUVs and trucks. This design direction indicates Hyundai’s commitment to offering spacious and impactful electric vehicles to meet the needs of consumers in the North American market.
As Hyundai prepares to launch the Ioniq 9 and expand its hybrid lineup, the company is poised to make a significant impact on the electric vehicle market. By focusing on popular segments like three-row SUVs and developing advanced technologies like EREVs, Hyundai is setting a new standard for sustainable transportation. With a strong presence in the US manufacturing sector and a commitment to innovation, Hyundai’s future in electric vehicles looks promising.