AUTO

Hyundai Teases IONIQ 9, Their Secret Weapon in the 7-Seater EV Race

November 12, 2024

The Hyundai IONIQ 9 is a spacious, family-friendly electric SUV built on Hyundai’s proven E-GMP platform for impressive range and fast charging.
Its “Aerosthetic” design features hanbok-inspired character lines and a boat-inspired interior for an aerodynamic yet calming feel.
Hyundai targets the growing 7-seater EV market, competing with models like the Kia EV9 and Tesla Model X, offering practicality and affordability.

Hyundai is ready to introduce its next big thing, the IONIQ 9, a three-row electric SUV making its debut this month (November). Built on the same E-GMP platform that powers the popular IONIQ 5 and IONIQ 6, this new addition is designed to meet the growing demand for spacious, family-friendly electric vehicles.

With the teaser images on the website revealing the IONIQ 9’s aerodynamic “Aerosthetic” design and hint at a luxurious interior inspired by nautical themes, this three-row electric SUV is ready to carve its place in the competitive 7-seater electric SUV market.

Hyundai Teases IONIQ 9 Their Secret Weapon in the 7-Seater EV Race - parametric pixels headlights

This move comes as no surprise. American buyers consistently show their preference for spacious vehicles. The success of the Kia EV9, a sibling to the IONIQ 9, proves this point. In just nine months, Kia’s three-row electric SUV has nearly matched the sales of the smaller, more affordable EV6, despite its higher $54,900 starting price. Hyundai appears ready to build on this momentum with the IONIQ 9.

Where Style Meets Family-Friendly Practicality

Hyundai’s IONIQ 9 strikes the perfect balance between style and practicality, staying true to the brand’s focus on smart design. Its headlamps feature Hyundai’s signature “parametric pixels,” a favorite among fans of the IONIQ 5 and 6. These blocky, retro-inspired lights add a futuristic touch while still delivering the reliable functionality you’d want in a family SUV.

The design isn’t just skin-deep. Hyundai highlights that the IONIQ 9’s character lines are inspired by the flowing silhouettes of Korea’s traditional hanbok attire, offering a cultural nod while improving aerodynamics.

Hyundai Teases IONIQ 9 Their Secret Weapon in the 7-Seater EV Race - multispoke wheels

“The character lines on its side evoke the diagonal lines of the traditional Korean clothing, Hanbok,” mentioned in the press release. “while the front lamps feature Parametric Pixels, Hyundai Motor’s signature lighting design for IONIQ models.”

The multispoke alloy wheels, inspired by motorsport racing cars, add a sporty edge to the exterior while maintaining a touch of sophistication.

Inside, Hyundai promises an interior inspired by boats, suggesting a spacious, calming environment for drivers and passengers. Though detailed images of the cabin haven’t been revealed yet, Hyundai’s track record suggests a focus on high-quality materials and intuitive technology.

The IONIQ 9 is Hyundai’s Move into the 7-Seater Electric SUV Market

Hyundai’s timing couldn’t be better. As more families transition to electric vehicles, the market for 7-seater SUVs is growing rapidly. The IONIQ 9 enters a segment filled with strong contenders like the Tesla Model X, Rivian R1S, and the previously mentioned Kia EV9.

Other 7-seater electric SUVs include the Mercedes-Benz EQB and the VinFast VF 9, both of which cater to eco-conscious buyers looking for luxury and utility.

The IONIQ 9 stands out by striking a balance between affordability, smart design, and everyday practicality. As Hyundai put it in their teaser release, “The ‘9’ in IONIQ 9 symbolizes the large vehicle class in Hyundai Motor’s IONIQ lineup, marking the company’s inaugural venture into the realm of large SUV EV models.”

This makes it clear that Hyundai is serious about making EVs more accessible for families who need room without sacrificing comfort or capability.

IONIQ 9 Brings E-GMP’s Proven Performance to Families

Hyundai’s choice to use the E-GMP platform is no accident. This modular electric architecture has already proven itself with the IONIQ 5 and 6, delivering impressive range, fast charging, and reliable performance. The platform has also demonstrated its versatility, supporting vehicles as varied as the sporty Genesis GV60 and the family-focused Kia EV9.

The IONIQ 9 is expected to inherit many of these strengths, including ultra-fast charging capabilities that can take the battery from 10% to 80% in just 18 minutes. This makes long road trips manageable, a critical factor for families considering an electric 7-seater SUV.

Hyundai’s latest offering reflects the brand’s dedication to meeting consumer needs while staying ahead of the curve.