Hyundai's Georgia Electric Vehicle Plant Begins Production of Ioniq 9 Right Before Tariffs Take Effect | Carscoops

      The new facility is presently assembling the Ioniq 5, in addition to Kia and Genesis models.

      Hyundai has raised the plant's annual production capacity to 500,000 units.

      Details regarding the pricing of the Hyundai Ioniq 9 EV in the U.S. have not yet been disclosed.

      Following a substantial $21 billion investment in its U.S. operations, which includes constructing a new $5.8 billion steel plant, Hyundai has officially commenced production at its Metaplant in Georgia. This site, which began construction over two and a half years ago, will concentrate on producing a variety of electric and hybrid vehicles, enhancing Hyundai's entry into the EV sector.

      The Grand Opening event was attended by Hyundai executives, Governor Brian P. Kemp, U.S. Representative Buddy Carter, and Kia Corporation's president and CEO, Ho Sung Song. The Metaplant has already started manufacturing the electric Hyundai Ioniq 5, and it is also now producing the Hyundai Ioniq 9.

      Hyundai’s Ioniq 9 marks its first three-row electric SUV and serves as an alternative to the Kia EV9. Unveiled last November, the Ioniq 9 is built on the group’s E-GMP architecture and comes standard with a 110.3 kWh battery. Although the brand has not released pricing for the SUV in the U.S., it is expected to be available in multiple variations.

      The base model features a 214 hp and 258 lb-ft (350 Nm) electric motor powering the rear wheels and offers a range of 385 miles (620 km). Above this is the Long Range AWD version, which includes an additional 94 hp motor at the front. The top-tier Ioniq 9 Performance boasts 214 hp motors at both the front and rear, enabling it to accelerate to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 5.2 seconds.

      Initially, Hyundai Motor Group aimed to manufacture 200,000 electric and hybrid vehicles at the Metaplant. However, due to its intensified commitment to the U.S. market, the annual production capacity has been expanded to 500,000 units.

      “Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America not only showcases our advanced manufacturing capabilities and dedication to innovation but also highlights our investment in relationships with our partners and communities right here in Georgia,” stated Hyundai Motor Group executive chair Euisun Chung. “With the rich legacy of craftsmanship and manufacturing in this region, combined with the skilled workforce at HMGMA, we are creating the future of mobility with America, in America.”