Hyundai Motor showcased its first large electric SUV, the Ioniq 9, at the Los Angeles Auto Show alongside over 40 other models. Scheduled for launch in early 2025, the Ioniq 9 will debut in South Korea before expanding to markets in the United States, Europe, and beyond. The vehicle will be manufactured in the US at Hyundai’s EV-dedicated plant in Georgia. The Ioniq 9 features a spacious, lounge-style interior for up to seven occupants and a sleek aesthetic exterior design, combining aerodynamic efficiency with futuristic styling. Built on Hyundai's E-GMP architecture, the SUV promises enhanced hill-climbing performance and driving efficiency. Hyundai also revealed the Initium, a hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) concept car, marking its first North American showcase. The Initium previews Hyundai’s direction for passenger FCEVs, with a market debut anticipated in the first half of 2025. The automaker highlighted strong US performance, with Hyundai’s global COO, José Muñoz, projecting record retail sales for 2024. Meanwhile, Kia introduced the high-performance EV9 GT electric SUV at the event. Equipped with a 160 kW front motor and a 270 kW rear motor, the EV9 GT delivers up to 508 horsepower. It is the first Kia SUV to feature an advanced suspension system, utilising road data to optimise ride comfort and handling. The EV9 GT will launch in South Korea in the first half of 2025. Kia also debuted refreshed versions of the EV6 and Sportage SUVs for the North American market. The EV6, a 2023 North American Utility Vehicle of the Year finalist, and the Sportage, Kia's top US seller, are expected to strengthen the brand’s presence following these updates. (ET)