Hyundai has teased its upcoming three-row electric SUV in the past, but the automaker recently shared more details, including a name change. The Ioniq 9, as it’s now called, is expected to debut in the next few weeks as the brand’s take on the Kia EV9.
Details are scarce at the moment, but we know the SUV will ride on Hyundai’s E-GMP platform, which it will share with the EV9. It will also likely offer similar specs to the Kia, which would include a base battery pack capable of 230 miles and upgraded options with up to 304 miles.
Hyundai showed the Seven Concept in 2021 to preview the vehicle. It sported a super futuristic look with “pixelated” light fixtures like the ones seen on the Ioniq 5. The design will likely tame down a bit before the official reveal, but it could keep some of that unique style, as the EV9 is quite the looker. Changing the name to Ioniq 9 also gives Hyundai the ability to slot an electric midsize SUV into its lineup between the six and nine models.
The vehicle will further expand Hyundai’s EV offerings in the U.S., adding to the Ioniq 5 crossover and Ioniq 6 sedan. Kia currently sells the EV6 crossover and EV9 three-row. While the group’s EVs have so far been ineligible for federal tax credits here, the brands have begun moving production to domestic locations, which would open eligibility for at least half of the credits.
[Images: Hyundai]
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