Hyundai has recently unveiled its highly anticipated Ioniq 9 electric SUV, which has created quite the buzz among automotive enthusiasts and potential buyers alike. The new three-row, seven-seater electric vehicle was first introduced at the Los Angeles Auto Show and has now been spotted undergoing local market testing in Australia. This spotting has provided eager fans with their first glimpse of the right-hand drive model, likely intended for Australian consumers.
Photos posted by Francisco A and reshared on techAU showcase the distinctive green exterior of the Ioniq 9, strapped down and seemingly ready for transport. Observers noted the SUV’s elongated vertical tail lights and the telling “IONIQ9” badge on the tailgate, marking it as part of Hyundai's growing electric lineup.
Inside the vehicle, several high-tech features stand out. The interior showcases minimalistic designs with large digital displays, including one significant driver and infotainment screen and digital side mirrors. These modern touches reflect the latest trends in automotive design, emphasizing user-friendly interfaces and sleek aesthetics.
The powertrain options for the Ioniq 9 are equally impressive. It will come equipped with a large 110.3 kWh Nickel-Manganese-Cobalt (NMC) battery pack, making it one of the biggest available in the electric SUV market today. Hyundai claims owners can charge this huge battery from 10-80% within just 24 minutes, thanks to its innovative 800-volt architecture.
Available configurations for the SUV will include both single and dual-motor options, with the higher-spec versions capable of delivering up to 320 kW of power and 700 Nm of torque. With a towing capacity reaching 2.5 tonnes, the Ioniq 9 aims to combine family-friendly usability with substantial performance.
The announcement of the Ioniq 9 marks the latest step forward for Hyundai as it completes its electric vehicle lineup, which includes models like the Kona Electric, Ioniq 5, and Ioniq 6. The Ioniq 9 is expected to hit the markets across the United States, South Korea, and Europe in the first half of 2025, with Australia to follow suit shortly thereafter.
While some enthusiasts await the arrival of the Ioniq 9, others are already considering the rival Kia EV9, which has been on sale since August and starts at $97,000 before additional road and registration costs. The Kia EV9, also based on Hyundai's E-GMP architecture, has been praised for its spaciousness and capability, offering consumers compelling choices between the two models.
Interestingly, reports have indicated Hyundai's plans might extend beyond the Ioniq 9. According to sources including British publication Auto Express, Hyundai could introduce models like the Ioniq 3, potentially airing as soon as next year. This rumoured addition would complement the existing lineup, providing options for budget-conscious buyers seeking electric vehicles.
The market for electric vehicles continues to expand, with players innovatively tailoring their offerings to different segments of consumers. Hyundai’s focus on developing smaller models, as suggested by statements from design lead Simon Loasby, indicates the brand is considering localized modifications to meet unique market needs.
The concept behind the Ioniq 3 draws from the Kia EV3, showcasing the need for more compact electric offerings. With various specifications being discussed, the Ioniq 3 is likely to feature battery capacities between 58.3 kWh and 81.4 kWh, boasting ranges of up to 600 kilometers on the higher-end model.
What’s particularly compelling is Hyundai's ability to maintain distinct aesthetics across its EV lineup. While the vehicles share the same underlying platform, each model boasts unique design identifiers. Currently, there's speculation about how these future models could look, especially with influence from the recently unveiled Ioniq 9.
With the automotive industry increasingly prioritizing electric vehicles, the competition is heating up. Brands are pushing boundaries to offer not only cutting-edge technology but also stylish and efficient designs. The Ioniq 9 and the Kia EV9 are front runners within this ever-evolving market. They both present exciting options for buyers eager to transition to electric vehicles without compromising on space, comfort, or capability.
Hyundai's commitment to electric mobility is evident through its thorough approach to design, engineering, and market responsiveness. The incoming Ioniq 9 and potential Ioniq 3 suggest this commitment will continue to play out over the next few years, providing both value and innovation for consumers. The automotive community is awaiting these next steps with bated breath, eager to see how Hyundai evolves its already impressive portfolio of electric vehicles.
