Hyundai’s Mojave Desert Testing Ground: A Sneak Peek at the New Hyundai Ioniq 9
At Hyundai’s American proving ground in the Mojave Desert, we were given a sneak peek at the highly anticipated new Hyundai Ioniq 9. This sprawling facility is a haven for testing, with vast skies, scorching temperatures, and delicious tacos at the canteen.
The sheer size of the facility is awe-inspiring, with enough space to accommodate LAX airport within its high-speed oval track. With temperatures soaring above 40 degrees Celsius in the summer months, it provides the perfect environment for pushing vehicles to their limits. Hyundai utilizes the extensive test track to put each new model through rigorous testing to ensure they can withstand the toughest conditions.
The top-secret facility is like a souped-up version of the renowned Millbrook Proving Ground, serving as the final testing ground for Hyundai’s upcoming flagship Ioniq EV. This beast of a vehicle weighs in at around 2700kg, boasts nearly 400 miles of range, and packs well over 400bhp in its most powerful configuration.
Built on the same E-GMP platform as Hyundai’s other Ioniq EVs and closely related to the Kia EV9, the Ioniq 9 is set to hit the market in mid-2025. Buyers can expect a choice of single- and dual-motor powertrains, six or seven seats, and a massive 110.3kWh battery – the largest in any EV currently available in the UK.
Pricing for the Hyundai Ioniq 9 is expected to start around £65,000, reaching up to £80,000 for the top-tier model. This gives the Ioniq 9 a competitive edge over its Kia counterpart and a significant advantage over the Volvo EX90, which starts at nearly £100,000.
With cutting-edge technology, impressive performance, and a spacious interior, the Hyundai Ioniq 9 is set to make waves in the EV market. Stay tuned for its official release in 2025.
