Hyundai’s upcoming and futuristic IONIQ 9 doesn’t just impress because of its size and interior space, but now we’ve learned that its range is equally as stunning thanks to new technology that the automaker is dabbling in.
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Hyundai invested heavily in the IONIQ 9’s battery technology
Hyundai revealed that the IONIQ 9 will be powered by a 110.3 kWh battery with a range of up to 335 miles in its highest trim. Of course, if you live in a frigid place like San Francisco in the winter, Hyundai has included an advanced heat pump to keep the battery warm. Korea’s Ministry of Environment certified that the IONIQ 9 can travel nearly 250 miles in temperatures as low as -7°C (19.4°F).
Further additions to help save energy include a rear-row HVAC that turns off automatically if no rear passengers are present and an active air flap that opens or closes to improve airflow.
Take one look at the IONIQ 9, and it’s easy to see the emphasis Hyundai placed on aerodynamics. A 3D-shaped underbody cover, new wheels, and hidden antennas all add up to a drag coefficient of just 0.259 Cd and a low energy consumption of just 194 Wh/km on the Long-Range RWD model.
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The interior is a place you won’t want to leave
As previously mentioned, the IONIQ 9’s cabin dresses to impress. Its “lounge-like” interior can seat six or seven occupants with swiveling rear seats in some markets. Hyundai also notes the introduction of their Dynamic Body Care system, a “sophisticated” massage system that uses pressure and vibrations to “stimulate blood flow and circulation, helping reduce fatigue.”
Another unique feature of the IONIQ 9’s interior is the slidable “Universal Island 2.0” center console that creates a walk-through front-row arrangement for easier access to the rear of the SUV.
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Fold down the third-row, and the vast expanse of cargo space expands to 1,322 liters or 46.69 cu. ft. The latest and greatest Hyundai tech is present, as it should be, with dual 12-inch driver and infotainment screens in a curved panoramic display.
Hyundai also seemingly took inspiration from the silence of Rolls-Royces, integrating triple door seals, acoustic glass, sound-absorbing tires, and Active Noise Control-Road (ANC-R) technology into the IONIQ 9. Prefer it loud instead? The optional premium BOSE 14-speaker sound system, with 5.1-channel surround sound, can help with that.
Great efficiency does not equal a lack of power
Power-wise, the Long-Range RWD uses a 160 kW rear motor, while the Long-Range AWD adds a 70 kW front motor for extra performance. The Performance AWD model, on the other hand, boasts a 160 kW motor on both axles.
The Performance AWD model accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (0 to 62 mph) in just 5.2 seconds, the Long-Range AWD variant takes 6.7 seconds, and the Long-Range RWD does it in 9.4 seconds.
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Final thoughts
With every newly released model, EVs become more advanced and range anxiety becomes a further concern. Paired with Hyundai’s attractive design language and cushy, techy cabins, the IONIQ 9 is shaping up to be an EV that might make it on more shopping lists than expected.
The IONIQ 9 should make it to the states sometime this spring, with prices likely to be revealed closer to launch.
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