Hyundai Celebrates Opening of Its Advanced EV Facility
Hyundai has officially launched production of its highly anticipated three-row electric SUV, the Hyundai IONIQ 9, at its newly built EV plant in Georgia. The company hosted a grand opening ceremony for the Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America (HMGMA) on Wednesday, marking a major milestone in its electrification strategy. The facility, which will manufacture Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis electric and hybrid vehicles, represents a key investment in the future of clean mobility. With the IONIQ 9 now in production, its official market launch is expected imminently.
The Georgia-based plant is part of Hyundai’s $7.6 billion investment in the state—the largest economic development initiative in Georgia’s history. The project is set to generate approximately 8,500 direct jobs by 2030. Additionally, Hyundai’s partnerships with battery manufacturers SK On and LG Energy Solutions, along with 18 associated suppliers, have contributed to over $12.6 billion in total investments. According to the Center for Automotive Research, these collective efforts will lead to nearly 40,000 new jobs across the state.
During the opening event, Hyundai Motor Group Executive Chair Euisun Chung highlighted the company’s commitment to innovation, stating, “Together with the talented workforce at HMGMA, we are building the future of mobility with America, in America.” Georgia Governor Brian Kemp, Hyundai CEO Jose Munoz, and Kia CEO Ho Sung Song were also present at the ceremony, underscoring the significance of the new facility.
IONIQ 9 Rolls Off the Assembly Line
Although the official opening of the plant was celebrated this week, Hyundai has already begun vehicle production at the site. The first model to roll off the assembly line was the updated 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5, which was produced in October. The latest version of the IONIQ 5 features an extended driving range of up to 318 miles, refreshed exterior and interior styling, and a new North American Charging Standard (NACS) port, enabling access to Tesla Supercharger stations.
With the production of the Hyundai IONIQ 9 now underway, Hyundai’s flagship three-row electric SUV is expected to be available for purchase in the coming weeks. Designed for spacious comfort and long-range capabilities, the Hyundai IONIQ 9 is built with a sizable 110.3 kWh battery, offering an estimated range of up to 335 miles per charge. Like its smaller sibling, the IONIQ 9 will also include an NACS port for seamless charging accessibility.
A Competitive Entry in the Large EV Market
The IONIQ 9 is designed to compete in the growing market for large electric SUVs. It boasts a luxurious, “lounge-like” interior with a generous cargo space of up to 1,322 liters—exceeding the Kia EV9, which offers 1,233 liters. Measuring 5,060 mm (199.2 inches) in length, 1,980 mm (78 inches) in width, and 1,790 mm (70.5 inches) in height, the Hyundai IONIQ 9 is slightly larger than Kia’s three-row EV9, positioning it as a premium choice for families and long-distance travelers.
Hyundai has yet to announce official pricing for the Hyundai IONIQ 9 but is expected to provide details closer to its release. Industry analysts predict that the model will start at around $60,000, placing it slightly above the Kia EV9’s price range. With the new Georgia plant ramping up production, Hyundai is positioning itself as a formidable competitor in the electric vehicle market while reinforcing its commitment to American manufacturing and sustainable innovation.
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