In under a quarter of an hour, I swiftly charged a brand new Hyundai Ioniq 9 electric vehicle from 16% to 80%, gaining an impressive 237 miles of driving range, and saving a considerable 33% on costs compared to gasoline expenses.
Hyundai has unveiled its latest electric vehicle (EV), the Ioniq 9, a three-row SUV that promises to redefine the EV landscape. The Ioniq 9 boasts a sleek design, rapid charging capabilities, and broad infrastructure compatibility, making it a compelling choice for EV enthusiasts.
The Ioniq 9's aerodynamic design, with a drag coefficient of 0.259 Cd, is a testament to Hyundai's commitment to efficiency. Clean, minimalist lines, active air flaps, low-resistance tires, and a sleek underbody cover all contribute to this impressive figure.
Powered by a 110.3 kWh NCM lithium-ion battery, the Ioniq 9 delivers a WLTP-rated range of approximately 270-300 miles. In a real-world test, the Ioniq 9 achieved a peak charge of 218 kW and an average of 173 kW, adding 237 miles of range in just 26 minutes.
Hyundai's 800V E-GMP platform underpins the Ioniq 9, delivering industry-leading charging speeds without the need for exotic battery chemistry or bespoke charging locations. The Ioniq 9 supports both 400 V and 800 V fast-charging architecture, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of charging stations. Charging from 10% to 80% takes about 24 minutes when using a 350 kW charger.
In terms of charging stops, the Ioniq 9's shorter and more frequent stops align with the new rhythm of smart EV route planning apps. Hyundai has also adopted the North American Charging Standard (NACS), providing free adapters for existing owners and integrating NACS ports into future models. This move ensures seamless charging for Ioniq 9 drivers across the continent.
Moreover, Ioniq 9 drivers will have access to Tesla's Supercharger network without being locked into a closed ecosystem. This broad infrastructure compatibility sets the Ioniq 9 apart from many of its competitors.
The exterior of the Ioniq 9 is described as "chunky, squared, pixel-lit, unapologetically angular," with bold, blocky proportions and pixel-themed lighting. The design leans into clean lines, squared shoulders, and calm restraint, avoiding futuristic or retro styles. The overall silhouette could easily be mistaken for a premium Nordic SUV, but with a Hyundai badge.
Inside, the Ioniq 9's cabin features a flat floor layout, floating surfaces, mood lighting, HUD overlay, and premium materials, creating a calm, Scandinavian-inspired space. The Ioniq 9 also offers bi-directional charging (V2L) to power external devices or serve as emergency backup power from both interior and external charge ports.
Noah Washington, an automotive journalist based in Atlanta, Georgia, has praised the Ioniq 9. Having been in the automotive industry since he was 15 years old, Washington has been featured in prominent automotive news sites. He describes the Ioniq 9 as a turning point in the EV world, offering thoughtful styling, broad infrastructure compatibility, and competitive range and rapid charging.
The Hyundai Ioniq 9 and Ioniq 5 have been introduced as electric, three-row SUVs. The cost of adding 62 miles of electric range in the Ioniq 9 is approximately $10.69, compared to nearly $16 for gas in a Hyundai Santa Fe. This cost-effectiveness, coupled with its impressive performance and design, makes the Ioniq 9 an appealing choice for those considering the switch to electric vehicles.
It's clear that the Hyundai Ioniq 9 is set to make waves in the EV market. With its smart design, rapid charging capabilities, and broad infrastructure compatibility, it's a compelling choice for those looking to make the switch to electric vehicles.
