Hyundai is gearing up to go on a “full-scale attack” as it ramps up exports of its new flagship three-row EV. The IONIQ 9 is now rolling out in the US, South Korea, and Europe.
Hyundai IONIQ 9 three-row EV production picks up
After launching the IONIQ 9 in South Korea earlier this year, Hyundai had high hopes. However, the flagship electric SUV has struggled to gain traction in the automaker’s home market.
Hyundai is betting on overseas markets, including the US and Europe, to drive sales. In Korea, it has been steadily ramping up IONIQ 9 with plans to go on a “full-scale attack on Europe.”
An industry insider explained (via NewsIs) that “As Hyundai Motor Company speeds up its entry into overseas markets with the Ioniq 9, export volume will increase rapidly.”
Since it shipped the first models in April, IONIQ 9 exports have tripled. In June, Hyundai exported 1,781, up from 1,482 in May and 539 in April. The higher exports are in preparation for sales kicking off in Europe. Hyundai revealed last week that the IONIQ 9 will start at £64,995 ($87,500).
Powered by a 110 kWh battery, the three-row EV features a WLTP driving range of up to 385 miles. On the EPA scale, it’s rated with up to 335 miles of driving range.
Europe is not the only market that Hyundai is taking aim at. The automaker is using a two-track strategy. In the US, Hyundai builds the IONIQ 9 at its new EV plant in Georgia, alongside the updated 2025 IONIQ 5.
Production has been steady at Hyundai’s Metaplant America (HMGMA) plant since it began in April. Hyundai built 2,382 IONIQ 9 models in May and another 1,803 in June. Through June 2025, 1,013 Hyundai IONIQ 9 models have been sold in the US.
With IONIQ 9 sales falling from 1,009 in April to 867 in May and then to 767 in June, Hyundai is betting on the US and Europe to make up for the shortfall.
After promising to maintain prices in the US earlier this year, Hyundai has stood by the guarantee. The 2026 IONIQ 9 (see our review of it) is surprisingly affordable with leases starting at just $419 per month.
Hyundai’s new and improved 2025 IONIQ 5 may take the cake as the best EV deal right now, listed with leases as low as $179 per month. To get owners started, it also offers a free ChargePoint L2 home charger with the purchase or lease of any new 2026 IONIQ 9 or 2025 IONIQ 5.
Want to see one for yourself? Use the links below to find 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5 and 2026 IONIQ 9 models in your area.
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