During 2024 CEO Investor Day, Hyundai finally unveiled the name of its large electric SUV, to be named IONIQ 9, se to be revealed at the upcoming Los Angeles Auto Show in November. The IONIQ 9, based on the SEVEN concept car introduced at the same show in 2021, marks Hyundai’s first three-row electric SUV. It has been developed on the company’s dedicated EV platform, E-GMP.
The IONIQ 9 has already undergone test production at Hyundai’s Asan plant in South Korea, with final quality checks currently underway. The vehicle is expected to be produced at Hyundai’s new Meta Plant in Georgia, USA, scheduled for completion by the end of this year. Local production is deemed essential to meet the high demand for large electric SUVs in the U.S. market.
Why IONIQ 9?
The Hyundai IONIQ brand has been at the forefront of the company’s electric vehicle innovation. Offering a range of models designed to cater to various consumer needs and preferences. However, the naming convention of these models has taken a significant turn. The decision to transition from the “7” to the “9” is more than just a numerical jump. It is a strategic move that aligns with the vehicle’s stature and Hyundai’s future aspirations.
The IONIQ 9 will be Hyundai’s largest electric SUV, a beacon of luxury, space, and cutting-edge technology. In this context, the number ‘9’ is more representative of its flagship status, distinguishing it as the pinnacle of Hyundai’s electric offerings. This change addresses a logical progression in Hyundai’s lineup. The number ‘7’ could potentially be reserved for a smaller vehicle, ensuring a clear and intuitive hierarchy within the brand.
This move to rename the IONIQ 9 is a testament to the company’s commitment to innovation and excellence. This model will set new benchmarks in terms of performance, comfort, and sustainability. Initially set to debut at Busan Motor Show the past June, Hyundai now aims to offer the convenience of electric mobility with the luxury and spaciousness that one would expect from a large SUV.
The Impact on Hyundai’s Electric Vehicle Strategy
The name change will leave some space for another crucial models in Hyundai’s broader strategy to lead the electric vehicle market. Since the launch of the SEVEN concept, all the car industry started to called it as IONIQ 7 as well as Hyundai have done until the final stages of development, check the proof above of the SUV prototype with “IONIQ 7” lettering inside the camera mirrors. And because of that, we don’t decided to publish this information until we got the confirmation of the name change.
The strategic name change from IONIQ 7 to IONIQ 9 is a bold move by Hyundai, reflecting its commitment to innovation and leadership in the electric vehicle industry. As we eagerly await more details about the IONIQ 9, it’s clear that Hyundai is not just changing the name of its upcoming SUV; it’s setting the stage for a new era of electric mobility. Stay tuned as we continue to bring you the latest updates on the Hyundai IONIQ 9 and what it promises to bring to the electric vehicle market.
