New Plant Operational:: The HMGMA facility in Bryan County, Georgia, celebrated its grand opening on March 27th, 2025, less than two years after construction began.
IONIQ 9 Enters Production:: Hyundai's flagship electric SUV, the IONIQ 9, is now rolling off the assembly line at the new Georgia plant, with its official launch expected this spring.
Production Capacity:: The plant will initially produce 300,000 vehicles annually, scaling up to 500,000 electric and hybrid vehicles from Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis brands.
Major Investment:: The facility is part of a $7.6 billion investment in Georgia ($12.6 billion including partners), expected to create ~8,500 direct jobs and nearly 40,000 total jobs in the region by 2030. It's part of a broader $21 billion U.S. investment plan by Hyundai Motor Group.
IONIQ 9 Specs:: The IONIQ 9 features an NACS charging port, a large 110.3 kWh battery targeting ~335 miles of EPA range, and offers spacious seating and cargo capacity (1,322 liters), slightly larger than its sibling, the Kia EV9.
Why this matters:: This development significantly boosts U.S.-based EV manufacturing capacity, introduces a new competitor in the large electric SUV segment, and reflects Hyundai's strategy to adapt to market demands (adding hybrid production) and potential policy shifts like tariffs or changes to EV subsidies.
Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America represents the company's first dedicated EV mass-production plant in the U.S. Located strategically near Savannah, Georgia, the plant is not only assembling vehicles like the recently updated 2025 IONIQ 5 and the new IONIQ 9 but also integrates battery production through joint ventures with SK On and LG Energy Solutions.
The decision to include hybrid vehicle production alongside EVs reflects a response to fluctuating consumer demand for purely electric cars and anticipates potential changes in government incentives and trade policies, such as the discussed 25% import tariffs. Kia vehicles are slated to constitute 40% of the plant's output, with the first Georgia-built Kia model expected in 2026.
The IONIQ 9, positioned as a slightly larger and potentially more premium alternative to the successful Kia EV9, aims to capture the growing market for family-sized electric vehicles. Its large battery, competitive range estimate, and NACS port adoption make it a compelling option. The plant itself employs an "intelligent manufacturing" system, utilizing AI, data optimization, and robotics to enhance efficiency and create a modern work environment.
What is the Hyundai IONIQ 9?
The IONIQ 9 is Hyundai's first large, three-row all-electric SUV, designed for families and offering significant range and cargo space.
Where is the new Hyundai plant located?
The Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America (HMGMA) is located in Ellabell, Bryan County, Georgia, near Savannah.
When will the IONIQ 9 be available for purchase?
Production has started, and Hyundai expects the IONIQ 9 to launch in the spring of 2025. Pricing details will be announced closer to the launch date, expected to start around $60,000.
What other vehicles will be built at the Georgia plant?
The plant will produce electric and hybrid vehicles for Hyundai (like the IONIQ 5 and 9), Kia (starting 2026), and Genesis brands.
New Option for Large EV Buyers:: If you're in the market for a three-row electric SUV, the Hyundai IONIQ 9 presents a new, technologically advanced option built in the USA.
U.S. Manufacturing Growth:: This plant signifies a major investment in American manufacturing, potentially boosting the regional economy and EV supply chain.
Market Dynamics:: Keep an eye on how the introduction of the IONIQ 9 and increased U.S. production influence EV pricing and competition, especially in light of potential tariff changes. Consider test-driving both the IONIQ 9 and Kia EV9 to compare features and value.
Do you think the IONIQ 9 will compete well with rivals like the Kia EV9 and other electric SUVs? Let us know your thoughts!
*Share this article with others who need to stay ahead of this trend!*
Source 1: Hyundai's 'first-ever, 3-row' EV under production at new Georgia plant (Fox Business)
Source 2: Inside Hyundai’s U.S. EV factory as tariffs shake up the auto industry (Automotive News)
Source 3: Hyundai IONIQ 9 officially enters production as its new Georgia EV plant opens (Electrek)
⚠ Disclaimer: Yanuki provides article summaries and links for reference only. Yanuki does not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy of third-party sources. Please review original sources and verify information independently. Managed by the Yanuki Data Engine. Full Disclaimer