Hyundai recently made an exciting announcement during an investor day conference, revealing their plans to introduce the Ioniq 9 as their next electric vehicle for the US market. This beefy, three-row SUV will be manufactured at the company’s factory in Georgia, showcasing Hyundai’s commitment to expanding its presence in the plug-in market by targeting popular vehicle segments.
The Ioniq 9 is set to be based on the Concept Seven, a concept first unveiled in 2021. This new electric SUV will utilize Hyundai’s Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), which has already proven successful with models such as the Ioniq 5, Ioniq 6, Kia EV6, Kia EV9, and Genesis GV60. By building the Ioniq 9 at the same factory as the Ioniq 5 in Ellabel, Georgia, Hyundai is positioning itself to take advantage of the federal EV tax credit of $7,500, further incentivizing US consumers to make the switch to electric vehicles.
During the conference, Hyundai Motor President and CEO Jae Hoon Chang announced that a production version of the Ioniq 9 will be showcased at the upcoming Los Angeles Auto Show, generating excitement and anticipation among electric vehicle enthusiasts. This move not only demonstrates Hyundai’s commitment to innovation but also shows their responsiveness to consumer preferences and market trends.
In addition to their focus on electric vehicles, Hyundai also revealed plans to increase their share of hybrids in their lineup, acknowledging that US consumers are showing a growing interest in hybrid vehicles as a transitional option towards full electrification. Hyundai recognizes the shortage of hybrids in the North American market and aims to address this gap by offering a wider range of hybrid models to cater to diverse consumer needs and preferences.
The Concept Seven, on which the Ioniq 9 is based, was promoted as being capable of fast charging from 10 percent to 80 percent in just 20 minutes, with a range exceeding 300 miles. However, Hyundai executives hinted at the possibility of exploring Extended Range Electric Vehicles (EREVs) to provide even greater range capabilities. By studying the success of EREVs like the BMW i3 and Chevy Volt, Hyundai aims to push the boundaries by developing EREVs that can travel over 560 miles on a single charge, offering consumers more flexibility and confidence in electric vehicle ownership.
The Concept Seven caught the attention of industry experts with its impressive dimensions, boasting a wheelbase of 10.5 feet, even longer than the iconic Cadillac Escalade. The distinctively tall grille of the concept positions it in the realm of “dangerously large” vehicles, aligning it with oversized SUVs and trucks that dominate the market. This bold design direction signifies Hyundai’s ambition to make a statement in the electric vehicle segment while catering to the preferences of American consumers who value spaciousness and presence on the road.
Hyundai’s decision to introduce the Ioniq 9 as their next electric vehicle for the US market reflects their proactive approach towards expanding their electric vehicle lineup and addressing consumer demands for cleaner, more sustainable transportation options. With a focus on innovation, technology, and design, Hyundai is poised to make a significant impact in the rapidly evolving electric vehicle market.