The electric SUV market is about to get even more competitive with the arrival of the highly anticipated Hyundai Ioniq 7. Set to officially debut at the Busan Motor Show in June, this three-row electric SUV is generating significant buzz. Here’s a preview of what we know so far about the IONIQ 7 and why it’s poised to be a major player in the EV landscape.
Hyundai has been strategically leveraging the shift towards electric vehicles, building a strong lineup based on its dedicated E-GMP platform. Models like the IONIQ 5 and IONIQ 6 have already made waves, and the IONIQ 7 is expected to continue this momentum. Hyundai’s commitment to EVs is clearly paying off; recent data from S&P Global indicates they were the fourth best-selling EV brand in the U.S. last year, capturing 4.5% of the market share. This growth is particularly notable as some competitors are scaling back their EV production plans. Hyundai, in contrast, is accelerating its EV initiatives.
Hyundai IONIQ 9 SEVEN Concept showcasing futuristic design and spacious interior.
Adding to their commitment, Hyundai is on track to open its first dedicated EV and battery manufacturing plant in Georgia later this year. According to Hyundai Motor America CEO Jose Munoz, this $7.6 billion facility could begin operations as early as October. This is a strategic move to ensure Hyundai vehicles, including the upcoming IONIQ 7, will qualify for the $7,500 federal EV tax credit, enhancing their market competitiveness.
IONIQ 7: Expanding the IONIQ Lineup with Size and Innovation
The Hyundai IONIQ 7 represents the next step in the evolution of Hyundai’s all-electric IONIQ family. This model is not just another EV; it’s designed to be larger, more advanced, and cater to families needing the space of a three-row SUV. The official unveiling at the Busan International Motor Show (BIMOS) in South Korea is highly anticipated by industry experts and consumers alike.
Hyundai first teased the design direction of the IONIQ 7 with the SEVEN concept at the 2021 Automobility LA show. The SEVEN concept was envisioned to not only complement the existing IONIQ range but to propose “a whole new way of life” through its innovative design and focus on passenger experience.
Hyundai IONIQ 7 electric SUV concept highlighting its sleek lines and modern EV aesthetic.
The design philosophy behind the IONIQ 7 emphasizes creating a driving experience that is enjoyable, relaxing, and supremely comfortable. Hyundai has emphasized that the interior space is designed to feel as inviting and spacious as a living room, prioritizing passenger comfort and a sense of openness.
Recent sightings of the IONIQ 7 undergoing testing further build anticipation for its launch. According to reports from TheKoreanCarBlog, the official debut is slated for June 27th, 2024, at BIMOS. This reveal will provide a closer look at the production-ready version of this groundbreaking electric SUV.
Camouflaged Hyundai IONIQ 7 prototype undergoing road testing, hinting at its final design.
Front profile view of the Hyundai IONIQ 7 electric SUV, showcasing its distinctive lighting and grille design.
Hyundai IONIQ 7 test vehicle observed during public road trials, indicating advanced development stage.
IONIQ 7: Shared Platform and Expected Specifications
Industry expectations are that the IONIQ 7 will share key components with the Kia EV9, another three-row electric SUV that has garnered positive attention. This includes a similar ground clearance of around 8 inches, suggesting robust SUV capabilities. Reports from local media indicate potential battery options of 76.1 kWh and 99.8 kWh for the IONIQ 7, offering a range of choices to consumers. Furthermore, it is expected to feature ultra-fast 350 kW charging capabilities, enabling rapid charging times of approximately 25 minutes to charge from 10% to 80%.
Production of the Hyundai IONIQ 7 is reportedly scheduled to commence at Hyundai’s Asan Plant in Korea in July 2024. Plans are also in place to manufacture the IONIQ 7 at the new Georgia facility starting next year, reinforcing Hyundai’s commitment to the North American market and EV production within the region.
2024 Kia EV9 GT Line, a close relative to the Hyundai IONIQ 7, sharing platform and technology.
When spotted alongside the Kia EV9, the IONIQ 7 exhibits a comparable overall size, suspension setup, and wheel design, reinforcing the shared platform. However, closer inspection reveals subtle design differences. The IONIQ 7 appears slightly larger at the front and presents a less boxy silhouette than the Kia EV9, thanks to its sloped A-pillar, offering a unique aesthetic while maintaining the practicality of a large SUV.
While both EVs are built on the E-GMP platform, reports suggest distinct design and feature differentiations between the IONIQ 7 and the EV9, catering to slightly different market segments and preferences. As the official debut at the Busan Motor Show approaches, anticipation is building for more detailed specifications and features of the Hyundai IONIQ 7. The IONIQ 7 is shaping up to be a significant contender in the electric three-row SUV category, offering a blend of space, technology, and Hyundai’s signature EV innovation.
