Upcoming Hyundai Ioniq 9 spotted in California ahead of debut

Hyundai set a record for EV sales in the first quarter of 2024, but it's not done expanding its electric lineup. Already known for its popular Ioniq 5 crossover SUV, Hyundai is now preparing to unveil its first-ever three-row electric SUV, the Ioniq 9.

A recent sighting in California gives us a few more clues as to what to expect from it. The Ioniq 9 sports sleek production-ready headlights and a less boxy shape than its concept. In the video, the Ioniq 9 is accompanied by the Kia EV9, and Hyundai appears marginally larger. This behemoth could potentially surpass the generous legroom in the Kia EV9 even if it's built on the same platform.

The Ioniq 9 rides on Hyundai's dedicated EV platform, known as E-GMP. This architecture already underpins successful models like the Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6 and is shared with Kia and Genesis. While Hyundai remains tight-lipped on specific range and charging specs, those specs are bound to be similar to those found in Kia 9 models.

Production of the Ioniq 9 will take place at Hyundai's brand-new EV plant in Georgia, scheduled to come online in the first half of 2024. Sales in the US should kick off by mid-2025. Crucially, the automaker expects this American-built SUV to qualify for the full $7,500 federal tax credit, a considerable financial incentive for potential buyers.

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