2024.12.26 Hyundai Motor Company
9 Key USPs That Define the Value of the Hyundai IONIQ 9
The IONIQ 9, Hyundai's new flagship electric SUV, combines unique design and cutting-edge technology to redefine what an electric vehicle can offer. Let's explore the features that make the IONIQ 9 truly stand out.
- Supporting an Effortless EV Lifestyle with a Massive 110.3 kWh Battery
- Dual-motion active air flaps for a sleek exterior and optimized aerodynamics
- Class-leading 3,130mm wheelbase: The key to spacious comfort
- Universal Island 2.0 console: Exceptional storage and versatility
- Spacious storage for a large electric SUV
- High-powered USB-C ports for a seamless digital experience
- IONIQ 9’s hidden antenna: Disappearing for better aesthetics
- Camera cleaning system: Always ensuring a clear rearview
- IONIQ 9, evolving through software
Hyundai Motor Company, a recognized leader in electrification, has consistently proven its technological prowess and competitive edge in the global automotive landscape, earning accolades such as the prestigious World Car Awards. The all-new IONIQ 9, Hyundai's latest addition to its lineup of large electric SUVs, embodies the brand's expertise and innovation in electrified mobility. Packed with advanced features and groundbreaking technology, the IONIQ 9 sets new standards for electric SUVs.
Supporting an Effortless EV Lifestyle with a Massive 110.3 kWh Battery
The IONIQ 9 is equipped with the Hyundai Motor Group's largest high-voltage battery to date, boasting a 110.3 kWh capacity across all trims. This battery features 48 additional cells compared to the 99.8 kWh battery used in the Kia EV9, allowing for greater energy storage. As a result, regardless of whether it’s a rear-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive model, every IONIQ 9 variant delivers over 500 km (310 miles) of range on a single charge (based on Hyundai’s in-house testing). This extended range not only provides EV drivers with greater peace of mind but also minimizes the inconvenience of frequent charging, making it an ideal choice for modern electric lifestyles.
The IONIQ 9’s impressive range of over 500 km is achieved not just through its large battery but also through the integration of advanced technologies and innovative approaches. Key contributors include the aerodynamically optimized and aesthetically refined design that enhances airflow efficiency, lightweight construction using aluminum components (including the hood, doors, tailgate, fenders, and rear quarter panels), a high-performance rear two-stage inverter that maximizes efficiency and power output, and the DAS (Disconnector Actuator System), which deactivates the front motor when additional torque is unnecessary. These features combine to elevate the IONIQ 9’s efficiency, performance, and overall driving experience.
Dual-motion active air flaps for a sleek exterior and optimized aerodynamics
The exterior design of the IONIQ 9 is built around the "Aerosthetic" concept, a harmonious blend of aerodynamics and aesthetics. This approach is evident in its streamlined roofline and cleanly integrated surfaces, resulting in an impressive drag coefficient (CD) of just 0.259—a figure comparable to that of midsize sedans. Achieving such a remarkable aerodynamic performance in a three-row large SUV is nothing short of extraordinary.
One of the key innovations enabling the IONIQ 9’s exceptional aerodynamic performance is the world’s first application of dual-motion active air flaps. These air flaps allow air to flow in only when necessary for cooling the drivetrain or battery, and they remain closed during other times to minimize air resistance. Unlike conventional rotating flaps, the dual-motion active air flaps on the IONIQ 9 operate with two distinct trajectories: linear movement and rotation. This new mechanism significantly reduces gaps between components, eliminating even the smallest disruptions to airflow. When closed, the flaps contribute to the vehicle’s sleek and seamless exterior appearance.
Class-leading 3,130mm wheelbase: The key to spacious comfort
The IONIQ 9 was designed with a clear goal: to provide ample and flexible space so that passengers can enjoy a convenient and enjoyable EV experience—both individually and together. With this vision, the IONIQ 9 takes its place as a bold and commanding presence in Hyundai’s lineup, boasting the longest wheelbase of any Hyundai passenger vehicle at 3,130mm. This generous wheelbase allows for a spacious three-row layout with 6-seat or 7-seat configurations, ensuring comfort for all passengers.
The advantages of this extended wheelbase are maximized through Hyundai Motor Group’s dedicated E-GMP electric vehicle platform. The compact size of the PE (Power Electric) system—comprising the motor, inverter, and reducer—paired with the absence of a traditional driveshaft, enables Hyundai to make the most of the space between the front and rear wheels. The flat placement of a high-voltage battery beneath the floor also allows the wheels to be positioned further toward the ends of the vehicle, resulting in unparalleled interior space. Thanks to its flat flooring and expansive wheelbase, the IONIQ 9 delivers superior head room, leg room, and shoulder room compared to its internal combustion engine counterparts in the same segment. The IONIQ 9’s thoughtfully designed space ensures that every passenger can travel in comfort and style.
Universal Island 2.0 console: Exceptional storage and versatility
With its expansive and roomy interior, the IONIQ 9 offers a wide array of storage solutions. Among its standout features is the Universal Island 2.0 Console, a first for Hyundai. This multi-functional center console enhances the sliding capabilities of the Universal Island Console from the IONIQ 5 and incorporates the dual-direction functionality first seen in the Santa Fe’s Multi Console.
The Universal Island 2.0 Console in the IONIQ 9 extends its front-and-back sliding range to an impressive 190mm, up from the IONIQ 5's 140mm. This increased range allows front-row passengers to move freely and gives second-row passengers convenient access to the console's storage compartments. Key features include a dual-direction armrest that can be opened from both front and rear and a lower drawer in the console, ideal for second-row use. Whether it’s passing items to children in the back seat or storing essentials for camping or outdoor adventures, the Universal Island 2.0 Console makes everything within reach.
Spacious storage for a large electric SUV
As a multi-passenger SUV, the IONIQ 9 is designed to accommodate the storage needs of every seating area, ensuring a comfortable travel experience for all. The first-row area is particularly well-equipped with practical storage spaces. Below the center fascia, you’ll find a glove box, an open tray above it, a wireless charging pad for smartphones on the Universal Island 2.0 Console, and large cupholders. Additionally, beneath the dual-direction armrest of the center console lies a storage box suitable for small items. Removing the dividers in this storage area provides enough room for taller items like large thermoses.
The IONIQ 9 also boasts ample storage for items not needed during the drive. Activating the electronic hood latch reveals a front trunk—or "frunk"—with 88 liters of space in the rear-wheel-drive models (52 liters in all-wheel-drive models). This space is ideal for stowing portable charging cables or items like gloves and shoes that may gather dust. The rear cargo space of the IONIQ 9 is equally versatile. Depending on whether the second- and third-row seats are folded down, the trunk offers a capacity ranging from 620 liters to a massive 2,462 liters. Even with just the third-row folded, the trunk can accommodate up to four golf bags and four Boston bags. When all seats are in use, there’s still enough space for three 25-inch suitcases.
High-powered USB-C ports for a seamless digital experience
With the widespread use of smartphones, tablets, and wearable devices, the presence of multiple USB ports in vehicles has become essential. Recent Hyundai models now feature USB ports tailored to each seat, enhancing both convenience and usability. The IONIQ 9 takes this a step further by incorporating USB-C ports with a maximum output of 100W, available in pairs across the first, second, and third rows. Compared to the previous 27W output of standard USB ports, this marks a significant upgrade, allowing not only smartphones but even laptops to charge efficiently. This means the IONIQ 9 provides a comfortable digital experience on the go.
IONIQ 9’s hidden antenna: Disappearing for better aesthetics
Since the first in-car radios were commercialized in the 1930s in the U.S., in-car media experiences have undergone dramatic changes over the past century. Modern vehicles now offer advanced infotainment systems, enabling passengers to enjoy FM/AM radio, music streaming, and a wide range of OTT services. Alongside these technological advancements, car antennas have evolved as well, transitioning from retractable poles to window-mounted film antennas and the now-ubiquitous shark fin antennas on rooftops.
The IONIQ 9 takes it one step further by eliminating visible antennas altogether with Hyundai's first-ever Hidden Antenna technology. As the name suggests, the hidden antenna conceals radio, navigation, and connected car communication systems throughout the vehicle's body. This innovative approach not only contributes to the IONIQ 9's sleek and futuristic exterior design but also improves its aerodynamic performance, reducing drag coefficient (CD) by 0.01. As vehicles advance into the V2X (Vehicle-to-Everything) and autonomous driving era, antennas will play an even more critical role. Technologies like the hidden antenna, which balance function and aesthetics, will become increasingly valuable.
Camera cleaning system: Always ensuring a clear rearview
In addition to the hidden antenna, another standout feature of the IONIQ 9 is Hyundai's first Triple Camera Cleaning System. As connectivity technology advances, vision-sensing systems like cameras, radars, and LiDARs are becoming essential for ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) and future mobility solutions. Among these, cameras are critical, acting as the eyes of a vehicle, enabling it to navigate and operate safely.
But if a camera gets dirty, impaired visibility can compromise the system’s ability to gather accurate data, potentially leading to safety risks. To address this, the IONIQ 9 is equipped with a cleaning system for its three rearview cameras—built-in cam, rearview camera, and digital center mirror—that uses washer fluid to remove contaminants effectively. This ensures a consistently clear rearview. Additionally, Hyundai designers have arranged the three cameras neatly above the license plate, delivering not only functionality but also a visually appealing, streamlined design.
IONIQ 9, evolving through software
One of the most innovative features of the IONIQ 9 is its Features on Demand (FoD) service, allowing owners to purchase additional options even after the initial vehicle purchase. FoD enables customers to subscribe to or buy permanent access to desired features via over-the-air (OTA) updates. This capability is part of the growing trend of SDVs (Software Defined Vehicles), where advanced vehicles leverage software to control diverse functions and manage data online, redefining the car ownership experience.
Through FoD, the IONIQ 9 offers features like customizable display themes for the cluster and AVNT screens, as well as a Remote Smart Parking Assist 2 package that includes forward and side parking collision avoidance support. These features will be available for purchase through the Bluelink Store, set to open in 2025. With FoD, IONIQ 9 owners can enjoy a safer, more convenient, and uniquely personalized mobility experience, setting a new standard for modern electric SUVs.
