Hyundai Ioniq 9 Reimagines Electric SUVs with Innovative Features
On November 20, 2024, Hyundai Motor Group embraced its ambitious vision for electric vehicles with the spectacular launch of the Ioniq 9, its first fully electric three-row SUV. The reveal, set against the iconic backdrop of Beverly Hills, radiated the charm and allure reminiscent of vintage Hollywood premieres. With company leaders and excited fans present, cheers filled the air as attendees sipped on soju cocktails and indulged in delectable soy-braised cod, all the whilst their eyes were transfixed on the glimmering Ioniq 9.
This groundbreaking SUV is set to roll off the assembly line at Hyundai's newly established factory near Savannah, Georgia, representing the company's commitment to electrification and innovation. The Ioniq 9 stands at the pinnacle of Hyundai's Ioniq lineup, using the Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) for ultimate performance and practicality and catering to families and those desiring spacious, luxurious travel.
“The Ioniq 9 embodies Hyundai Motor’s unwavering confidence in electrification,” said Jaehoon Chang, president and CEO of Hyundai. “Our commitment is to create new value for customers,” he added, reaffirming the company’s aspiration to reshape the EV market.
The Ioniq 9 doesn't just impress on the outside; it offers what can only be described as a lounge-like interior aesthetic. High-tech features abound, including Relaxation Seats capable of reclining fully and even equipped with massage functionalities, which aim to alleviate the stresses of long drives. Even more intriguing are the Swivelling Seats, allowing second- and third-row passengers to interact face-to-face, turning travel time with family or business partners from mundane to engaging.
Each design choice reflects Hyundai's forward-thinking ethos. For example, the slidable center console, referred to as Universal Island 2.0, not only maximizes space but also enhances functionality, sliding back up to 190 mm for optimal access.
Storage is plentiful, with the Ioniq 9 boasting a luggage capacity ranging from 620 liters with all seats utilized to 1,323 liters when the third row is folded down. Sustainability also plays a significant role, with eco-friendly materials such as recycled PET fabric, bio paints, and paints derived from recycled tire waste adorning the interior.
The Ioniq 9’s design is defined by its bold aerodynamic aesthetics—coined “Aerosthetic” by Hyundai. It features flush surfaces, flowing contours, and advanced dual-motion active air flaps, leading to an impressively low drag coefficient of just 0.259 Cd, enhancing efficiency.
Hyundai has also included cutting-edge LED lighting, symbolized by the distinctive Parametric Pixel lamps, enlivening the Ioniq 9’s futuristic appeal. The vehicle's generous wheelbase of 3,130 mm guarantees ample cabin space, and drivers can select from various 19-, 20-, or 21-inch wheel designs.
But, it’s what lies beneath the sleek exterior where the Ioniq 9 shines even brighter. The SUV houses a substantial 110.3 kWh battery, promising a remarkable WLTP-projected range of approximately 620 km on the Long-Range RWD version with 19-inch wheels. Remarkably, this variant can recharge from 10% to 80% within just 24 minutes when using a 350 kW ultra-fast charger.
Hyundai plans three distinct powertrain variants for the Ioniq 9: the Long-Range RWD with 160 kW of power and 9.4 seconds to reach 100 km/h, the Long-Range AWD offering dual motor support and achieving 6.7 seconds, and the Performance AWD variant delivering exhilarating speeds with two 160 kW motors and 0-100 km/h sprint times of 5.2 seconds.
One of the standout features of the Ioniq 9 is its Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability, allowing the vehicle's battery to power and charge various electronic devices, whether at home, during outdoor adventures, or during unexpected emergencies.
Adding to the Ioniq 9's appeal is its sophisticated technology integration. From over-the-air software updates to Hyundai's AI-enabled voice recognition, the SUV is crafted to cater to the modern driver's varied needs. Features on Demand will allow users to personalize their vehicle settings and download optional updates, adding new functionalities or entertainment directly from Hyundai’s software ecosystem.
Inside the cockpit, drivers and passengers will find not one, but two large 12-inch curved screens intertwined seamlessly, merging the display of the cluster and infotainment systems. The optional BOSE 14-speaker surround sound system ensures crystal-clear audio, and numerous fast USB-C charging points allow for easy connection of devices, with all these advanced features powered by the powerful EV battery.
It's not just convenience Hyundai has targeted; safety is front of mind too. The Ioniq 9 is furnished with the latest Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), featuring cutting-edge strategies to aid with navigation and collision avoidance, including Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist and Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist. Safety hasn't been overlooked either, with ten airbags incorporated, including advanced seatbelt pretensioners for third-row occupants.
This SUV's versatility and variety also extend to its customization options, presenting potential buyers with bold color choices and luxury interior trims to match personal tastes.
Set for market rollout starting in Korea and the United States within the first half of 2025, and swiftly followed by Europe and additional global locations, the Ioniq 9 is primed to become Hyundai's flagship electric SUV, effectively changing perceptions about what electric vehicles can offer.
From its innovative interior layouts to top-tier aerodynamic engineering, the Ioniq 9 is making waves and setting the standard for what consumers should expect from modern electric SUVs. The future of electrified family transportation looks incredibly promising with Hyundai's latest masterpiece!
