Hyundai unveiled the 2025 iteration of its Ioniq 5 electric SUV , hoping to increase the attractiveness of the vehicles to be produced in a sizable new Georgia plant, despite a slowdown in U.S. sales of electric vehicles.
A test version of the South Korean automaker’s most recent electric vehicle was unveiled at a dealership in Savannah, Georgia, just a short distance from a massive new $7.6 billion manufacturing complex. Although it hasn’t said when exactly, the business claims that the plant will start producing new Ioniq 5s by the end of the year.
The Ioniq 5 was the second-best-selling electric car in America in the first half of 2024 that wasn’t produced by market leader Tesla. Based on projections from Motorintelligence.com, Tesla’s Model Y led the market with over 198,000 sales, followed by the Model 3 with around 74,000. Third place went to the Ioniq 5 at around 19,000 and the Ford Mustang Mach E SUV at just over 22,000.
Though they are still increasing, sales of electric vehicles in the United States have slowed as more realistic consumers are concerned about range and the convenience of charging while on the road. By lowering costs and providing low-interest financing, Tesla Inc. has compelled rivals to do the same.
Hyundai Upcoming EV Plan
Hyundai anticipates that EVs made in George will initially be qualified for a $3,750 tax credit, with the possibility of earning the full $7,500 credit later on. “Broadening the appeal of electric vehicles to as many people as possible” is the goal of the latest Hyundai models’ enhancements, according to Joe LaMuraglia, head of communications for the company’s Georgia facility.
This also applies to batteries with a longer range. With just one charge, Hyundai claims that the base model 2025 Ionic 5s can travel up to 240 miles (386 kilometers)—a 20-mile (32-kilometer) increase over the previous generations. With specific modifications, the range can be increased to at least 310 miles (499 kilometers), according to the manufacturer. Additionally, the new Ioniq 5s has charging connectors that work with the 17,000 Supercharger locations that Tesla has around the United States.
La Muraglia told reporters in Savannah, “We address one of the main barriers for people thinking about an EV: the lack of charging stations.” He added: “If you’re going to go on a road trip in one of our vehicles, it will be a lot easier.”
Options for the base model include a more ruggedized version and a modified design for off-road driving. It has bigger wheels with all-terrain tires and front and rear bumper elements in digital camouflage. The pricing is one item Hyundai hasn’t disclosed. Regarding how much the new models would cost in comparison to the 2024 Ioniq 5, which had a starting price of about $41,800, LaMuraglia declined to say.
Furthermore, it’s uncertain when dealerships will receive the newest models. Like the one on show in Savannah on Tuesday, test models are now being produced at the Bryan County facility.
