Hyundai Ioniq 9 electric SUV introduced

Hyundai unveiled its new electric SUV model, Ioniq 9, before the Los Angeles Auto Show. Based on the Seven concept that the company introduced in 2021, this model is built on Hyundai’s Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP). The Ioniq 9 is set to make a strong presence in the electric vehicle market, using the same platform as the company’s existing electric models, the Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6. According to Hyundai’s statement, the 110.3 kWh capacity battery of this new SUV will be able to offer a range of up to 480 kilometers.

Ioniq 9 will be available in two basic model options: Long Range and Performance. The Long Range model will be available to users with two different driving options: rear-wheel drive (RWD) and four-wheel drive (AWD). While the RWD version produces approximately 214 horsepower (160 kW) and 350 Nm of torque, the AWD version has engines producing 70 kW (255 Nm of torque) at the front and 160 kW (350 Nm of torque) at the rear.

The Performance AWD model is equipped with dual 160 kW motors on both the front and rear axles. Although the total power of this model has not yet been announced, Hyundai states that the Performance AWD will be the most powerful electric vehicle ever produced, except for the brand’s other performance-oriented model, the Ioniq 5N. These options offer a wide range for users who are looking for efficiency in urban use and who expect high performance.

Hyundai announced that the Ioniq 9 will provide access to Tesla’s Supercharger network with the North American Charging System (NACS) port. This port will be offered with an adapter for those who want to use non-Tesla chargers. However, positioning the charging port on the rear panel on the passenger side may cause problems, especially in charging stations with short cables. For example, it is stated that users may have to occupy more than one parking space while charging. It is estimated that this situation will be largely solved with the long cable support of Tesla’s V4 chargers.

Ioniq 9 offers innovative solutions not only in charging but also in terms of energy management. The vehicle is equipped with bi-directional charging technology, and thanks to this feature, it can provide energy to homes in case of a power outage by connecting with Hyundai’s home charging system. Such features show that electric vehicles have become an important part of the energy ecosystem, rather than just a means of transportation.

Hyundai Ioniq 9 offers a comfortable and innovative interior

One of Hyundai’s most striking moves in the Ioniq 9 was the comfort and technology it offered in the interior. “Relaxation Seats”, especially offered in the Calligraphy series, offer passengers a high-level relaxation experience while charging, with their fully reclining structure, foot support and massage function. The ability of the second row seats to rotate into the third row creates a living room atmosphere in the vehicle and provides a unique space for social interaction.

The forward-backward movable center console in the vehicle provides both practicality and flexibility, especially in models with captain’s chairs. This console facilitates access to the third row and also offers additional storage space. Hyundai also attached great importance to hygiene in the interior. UV-C sterilizer, which allows disinfection of personal items such as phones and wallets, stands out as one of the innovations in this field.

Hyundai’s new “Optional Features” app store allows users to digitally personalize their vehicles. Content such as special lighting themes, digital display designs and games can be downloaded from this store for a fee. This approach takes vehicle personalization to a new level.

Hyundai has not yet announced the price of the Ioniq 9; However, it was reported that the vehicle will be produced in 2025 at Metaplant, the new production facility in Georgia. This facility, established with a $7.6 billion investment in partnership with Hyundai and LG Energy Solution, stands out as one of the brand’s biggest steps in electric vehicle production. The Ioniq 9, which will be produced in this facility, is expected to strengthen Hyundai’s position in the global electric vehicle market.

Hyundai has stated that the Ioniq 9 is a starting point for other future models as it expands its existing electric vehicle lineup. The company hinted that there are production plans for models such as Ioniq 1, 2, 3 and 4, and stated that the model naming system leaves room for such expansions.

The Ioniq 9 is not just a vehicle, it represents Hyundai’s claim in the electric vehicle market. With its advanced range capacity, comfortable interior design and innovative technologies, it aims to meet user expectations and provide a competitive advantage in its segment. However, the ultimate success of the vehicle will be determined by pricing, user experience and the value it can offer compared to competing models.