by Hyundai has started production at the Metaplant in Georgia, which has already seen significant investments, including the construction of a new steel plant worth $5.8 billion. The plant began building electric and hybrid vehicles about two and a half years ago and will become the main manufacturer of such models belonging to the Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis brands. The new complex supports Hyundai’s strategy in the electric vehicle market and will enhance the brand’s competitiveness in this segment. Company leaders attended the plant’s opening ceremony, along with Georgia Governor Brian P. Kemp, U.S.
Representative Buddy Carter, and Kia Corporation President and CEO Ho Sung Song. The Metaplant has already started electric vehicle production and, perhaps most importantly, has begun assembling the Hyundai Ioniq 9 model. The Hyundai Ioniq 9 electric SUV, introduced in November, is the first three-row vehicle of its kind in the brand’s lineup, representing an alternative to the Kia EV9. The vehicle is built on the E-GMP architecture and equipped with a standard 110.3 kWh battery. Prices are expected to be announced for the U.S.
market later. The base model is equipped with a single electric motor capable of 214 hp and 350 Nm of torque to the rear wheels, with a claimed range of 385 miles (620 km). The Long Range AWD modification has an additional front electric motor of similar power. The flagship Ioniq 9 Performance version is equipped with 214 hp motors at both the rear and front, allowing it to accelerate to 100 km/h in 5.2 seconds. Initially, Hyundai Motor Group planned to produce 200,000 vehicles at the Metaplant.
However, due to increased focus on the American market, the annual production capacity was expanded to 500,000 units. “The Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America reflects not only the group’s advanced manufacturing capabilities and commitment to innovation but also our passion for partnerships and communities in Georgia,” stated Hyundai Motor Group Executive Chairman Chung Eui-sun. “We are building the future of mobility together with America, in America.”
