Hyundai’s Metaplant in Georgia Kicks Off Production of IONIQ 9
Hyundai’s latest milestone is rolling off the production line in Georgia: the IONIQ 9, the company’s first-ever three-row electric SUV. The vehicle is being built at Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America (HMGMA), the automaker’s newly inaugurated facility in Bryan County. This marks a significant step in Hyundai’s U.S. manufacturing expansion, which includes a major push into electric and hybrid vehicles.
A Game-Changing Investment in U.S. Manufacturing
The sprawling Metaplant, located just 20 miles from Savannah, is a cornerstone of Hyundai’s ambitious investment in American manufacturing. Initially planned as an EV-exclusive facility, the plant’s production scope has expanded to include hybrid vehicles due to shifting market demands.
Hyundai Motor Group expects the facility to churn out up to 500,000 vehicles annually for its Hyundai, Kia, and Genesis brands. Kia vehicles alone will make up 40% of total production, according to Kia CEO Song Ho-sung.
“With the rich history of craftsmanship and manufacturing in this community, together with the talented workforce at HMGMA, we are building the future of mobility with America, in America,” said Euisun Chung, Hyundai Motor Group’s executive chair.
The IONIQ 9: Hyundai’s First Three-Row EV
Among the vehicles rolling off the line at HMGMA is the IONIQ 9, an electric SUV designed for families and long-distance travel. Slated to hit the market this spring, the IONIQ 9 is expected to compete with other large EVs in the growing three-row SUV segment.
A recent photograph from the plant shows workers assembling a green-framed IONIQ 9, highlighting Hyundai’s commitment to ramping up production quickly. The vehicle’s specifications, including battery range and pricing, are expected to be revealed closer to its official launch.
Hyundai Faces Political and Market Shifts
Hyundai’s investment in Georgia comes at a pivotal moment. While the company has committed $21 billion to U.S. manufacturing, shifting market dynamics and political uncertainties are at play.
Former President Donald Trump announced a 25% tariff on auto imports this week, a move that could impact Hyundai and other foreign automakers with significant U.S. sales. Hyundai, the world’s third-largest automaker when including its 35% stake in Kia, is one of the biggest exporters to the U.S. from South Korea.
- Mexico remains the largest exporter of vehicles to the U.S., followed by South Korea and Japan, according to S&P data.
- Kia currently produces most of its hybrid models, including the Sportage hybrid crossover, in South Korea.
Despite potential trade challenges, Hyundai’s investment in American production is a strategic hedge against tariffs and evolving U.S. regulations on electric vehicles.
Adapting to a Shifting EV Market
Hyundai originally planned for the Georgia plant to produce only electric vehicles. However, with demand for EVs cooling and uncertainty around federal EV subsidies, the automaker adjusted its strategy to include hybrid models.
The shift aligns with broader industry trends, as some automakers slow down their EV rollouts due to production costs and consumer hesitation over charging infrastructure.
Meanwhile, Hyundai’s commitment to electrification remains strong. The company has been a leader in EV development, with models like the IONIQ 5 and IONIQ 6 earning praise for performance and efficiency. The introduction of the IONIQ 9 signals Hyundai’s continued push to expand its electric lineup, even as it navigates a more cautious market.
A Major Economic Boost for Georgia
Beyond the automotive industry, Hyundai’s Georgia Metaplant is set to provide a major economic boost to the region. The facility is expected to create 14,000 full-time jobs by 2028, with thousands more expected in supply chain and support industries.
The grand opening ceremony saw Hyundai executives, Georgia Governor Brian Kemp, and other officials celebrating the milestone. Governor Kemp emphasized the significance of Hyundai’s investment, calling it a “game-changer” for Georgia’s economy.
As Hyundai moves forward with its U.S. expansion, all eyes will be on the IONIQ 9 and how it competes in the growing market for family-friendly electric SUVs. If successful, the vehicle could solidify Hyundai’s standing as a major EV player in America’s automotive future.
