Introduction

Hyundai has increasingly become a credible challenger in the electric vehicle sector, establishing a lineup that integrates futuristic styling, cutting-edge tech, and competitive ranges. Its Hyundai Ioniq 9 sub-brand, established to spearhead its EV push, has succeeded with the compact Ioniq 5 and the planned mid-size Ioniq 7. The cars have made Hyundai a progressive contender, breaking conventions in terms of innovation and price.

Taking its EV lineup to the next level, Hyundai is set to unveil its biggest electric vehicle to date — the Hyundai Ioniq 9. Based on the brand’s E-GMP (Electric-Global Modular Platform), the Ioniq 9 should blend flexibility, long-distance ability, and the smooth ride that EVs are famous for. What sets the Hyundai Ioniq 9 apart is Hyundai’s promise of a 300-mile driving range on a single charge.

Design and Dimensions

The Hyundai Ioniq 9 continues the bold, futuristic design language synonymous with the Ioniq sub-brand. Inspired by its smaller brethren, the Ioniq 5 and the future Ioniq 7, the Hyundai Ioniq 9 refines the look with greater authority and more polished surfaces. Clean lines, a boxy yet aerodynamic shape, and signature LED lighting details create a contemporary and premium appearance for the crossover. Its front face has a pixelated lighting signature, a touch of Ioniq signature, while flush door handles and aerodynamic wheels further boost its futuristic image.

Size-wise, the Hyundai Ioniq 9 is poised to be significantly larger than the Ioniq 7, a mid-size three-row SUV itself. Although formal dimensions have not been officially announced, the industry puts the Ioniq 9 in size between full-size SUVs such as the Hyundai Palisade or the Kia EV9. This places it well ahead of the Ioniq 5 compact and much larger than the Ioniq 7, making it a family-friendly, long-distance electric SUV flagship.

On the inside, the Hyundai Ioniq 9 features a roomy and premium cabin that is both comfortable and environmentally friendly. The three-row seating configuration can seat seven or eight people, depending on how it is set up, and guarantees plenty of legroom and headroom in all three rows. Hyundai has aimed to create a lounge-like atmosphere, using top-notch eco-friendly materials like recycled plastic, plant-based leather substitutes, and sustainably sourced textiles.

The level floor space, facilitated by the E-GMP platform, contributes to increased interior freedom and accommodates innovative storage options. With plenty of cargo room behind the third row and even more when the rear seats are folded, the Hyundai Ioniq 9 is well-suited for anything from a trip to the grocery store to a cross-country adventure.

Performance and Powertrain

The Hyundai Ioniq 9 will likely have a variety of powertrain options, both single-motor and dual-motor configurations, for various driving requirements. The entry model reportedly has a single electric motor at the rear, targeting efficiency-minded drivers who value range and daily practicality.

Though official specs have not been verified yet, initial estimates indicate that the single-motor model will be 215 to 225 horsepower, comparable to the Ioniq 7’s estimated output. The dual motor variant is expected to provide a range of approximately 300 to 325 horsepower and torque between 450 and 500 Nm. This would allow the Ioniq 9 to have a 0-60 mph acceleration time in less than 6 seconds, putting it in competition with other large electric SUVs in its category.

Despite its size, the Hyundai Ioniq 9 is engineered to provide a smooth and calm ride. Based on the Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), it enjoys a low center of gravity thanks to the battery’s placement in the underfloor compartment. This improves stability and handling, particularly when cornering or cruising the Highway. The car is also likely to offer adaptive suspension or electronically controlled dampers on more expensive trims, so it can dynamically alter ride quality based on driving conditions, trading comfort for responsiveness and vice versa.

While it won’t be a blue-collar off-roader, the Ioniq 9’s AWD system and ample ground clearance should be sufficient for light trail running and snowy or muddy conditions. Snow, sand, and gravel drive modes will likely be included in the package, and it’ll be a competent choice for drivers who only occasionally require off-pavement capability but can’t sacrifice on-road refinement.

• Battery and Range

The Hyundai Ioniq 9 will feature a high-capacity lithium-ion battery in the range of 100 kWh, based on the company’s developed E-GMP platform. It is powered by an 800-volt architecture that allows for rapid charging. With a DC fast charger, the Ioniq 9 can charge between 10% and 80% in 18 to 25 minutes, depending on the charger’s output. This dramatically cuts down on downtime and provides extra convenience for extended-distance travel. At home, the car will have Level 2 AC charging up to an 11 kW capacity, which should completely recharge the battery at night.

One of the Ioniq 9’s highlight promises is its 300-mile range per charge, preliminary estimates say. As measured on the EPA cycle, this is meant to be reassuring for potential customers worried about range anxiety. In actual use, this may work out to somewhere between 260 and 280 miles, depending on driving habits, terrain, weather, and usage of climate control systems. Nevertheless, for a full-size electric SUV with three seats across, this range is highly competitive and adequate for daily driving, family road trips, and weekend vacations.

Compared to its competitors, the Ioniq 9 stands on its own. The Tesla Model X has as much as 348 miles of range in its Long-Range model, but at a much more premium price. The Rivian R1S has multiple battery sizes, with the larger ones good for as much as 390 miles, but again, at a premium price. In contrast, the Kia EV9, Hyundai Motor Group’s sibling cousin, has approximately 304 miles of range in its long-range trim.

• Technology and Features

The Hyundai Ioniq 9 is set to impress tech-savvy drivers with a state-of-the-art infotainment system and a suite of connected features that align with Hyundai’s reputation for innovation. A large widescreen display will likely be at the dashboard’s center, combining a digital instrument cluster with a high-resolution touchscreen infotainment panel. The system will also support multi-device Bluetooth pairing, allowing passengers to manage media and navigation simultaneously.

Safety and driver assist features on the Ioniq 9 will come with an upgraded range of ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) under Hyundai’s brand name, SmartSense. Expected to be included in this roster are Highway Driving Assist 2 (HDA 2) for hands-free driving, adaptive cruise control, lane follow and lane centering assist, blind-spot collision avoidance with blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, 360-degree camera system, and automatic emergency braking. These technologies are intended for comfort, improving safety, and minimizing driver fatigue on long trips.

The Hyundai Ioniq 9 will also feature innovative and cutting-edge tech options that break the mold for what motorists can anticipate in a full-size electric SUV. Over-the-air (OTA) software updates will allow the vehicle to download new features and performance enhancements and fix bugs without a trip to the dealership, keeping the system current without a trip to the dealership. Certain trims will also feature augmented reality heads-up displays (AR HUD) and digital side mirrors, enhancing the high-tech experience even more.

• Sustainability and Manufacturing

The Hyundai Ioniq 9 rolls off Hyundai’s advanced Metaplant in Ellabell, Georgia. Located in a $7.6 billion investment, this plant has sustainability in mind. It utilizes top-notch automation, such as 300 Autonomous Guided Vehicles and 475 robotic arms, to improve efficiency while minimizing energy usage.

Conclusion

The Hyundai Ioniq 9 is a stir in the EV market. With cutting-edge technology, a roomy layout, and aggressive pricing, it will be poised to challenge the major players and set new standards for family-focused electric SUVs.

Hyundai’s development in the EV market is seen through its strategic growth of the Ioniq family. Hyundai’s aggressive expansion of its EV line and production capacity puts the Ioniq 9 in a prime position among the developing electric SUV competition.

FAQs

Q.1 When will the Hyundai Ioniq 9 go on sale?

The Ioniq 9 will arrive in U.S. dealerships during spring 2025.

Q.2 What is the Hyundai Ioniq 9 battery capacity?

It is said to have a massive battery pack of approximately 100 kWh with an 800-volt architecture to support fast charging.

Q.3 At what rate can the Hyundai Ioniq 9 be charged?

A DC fast charger can charge from 10% to 80% in 18 to 25 minutes.

Q.4 How many people can the Ioniq 9 seat?

Depending on the configuration, the Ioniq 9 seats 7 to 8 people.

Q.5 Is the Hyundai Ioniq 9 available with all-wheel drive?

There will be an AWD dual-motor option for increased performance and traction.

Q.6 What type of infotainment system does the Hyundai Ioniq 9 have?

It will have a big widescreen digital instrument cluster paired with a touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Q.7 What safety features are advanced?

The Hyundai Ioniq 9 includes Hyundai’s SmartSense suite, featuring adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking.

Q.8 Is the Hyundai Ioniq 9 eco-friendly in terms of materials?

It uses sustainable and recycled materials inside the cabin, like plant-based fabrics and recycled plastics.

Q.9 How does the Hyundai Ioniq 9 compare to competitors like Tesla Model X or Rivian R1S?

The Hyundai Ioniq 9 provides a competitive 300-mile range at a more budget-friendly price point, which is more appealing than the more expensive competition in the full-size electric SUV segment.