Hyundai Motor Company has unveiled the next evolution of intelligent electric mobility with the launch of the IONIQ 9, its flagship all-electric SUV, marking a major leap in the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in production vehicles. The IONIQ 9 combines Hyundai’s cutting-edge EV engineering with an AI-driven ecosystem designed to make driving simpler, safer, and more intuitive.
Generative AI Assistant for Natural In-Car Interaction
At the core of IONIQ 9’s innovation is the Hyundai AI Assistant, a conversational system powered by generative AI. Unlike traditional command-based voice systems, the assistant understands contextual, open-ended questions and engages in natural, human-like dialogue.
Activated by the phrase “Hey Hyundai” or a steering wheel button, the AI assistant can recommend nearby restaurants, provide live navigation updates, or adjust in-car settings like climate and music through natural speech. The system supports six languages at launch—German, UK English, Spanish, French, Italian, and Dutch—with more to come.
Smart, Predictive Systems for Safer, Efficient Driving
The IONIQ 9 features a range of intelligent systems that leverage real-time data and AI prediction models to enhance performance and comfort:
- Smart Regenerative Braking adjusts energy recuperation using navigation data and road geometry, improving range and driving smoothness.
- Intelligent HVAC Zone Control detects seat occupancy to fine-tune airflow and temperature, improving energy efficiency—especially in cold weather.
- Hyundai EV Route Planner monitors battery status, traffic, and charger availability to suggest the most efficient charging strategy for long trips.
- Remote Smart Parking Assist 2 enables fully automated parking via cameras and sensors—even when the driver is outside the vehicle.
These innovations reinforce Hyundai’s mission to make electric mobility more intelligent, user-friendly, and sustainable.
Powered by NVIDIA for Future AI Mobility
Hyundai’s strategic partnership with NVIDIA, announced earlier in 2025, underpins the IONIQ 9’s digital architecture. NVIDIA’s AI computing platforms support Hyundai’s vision for software-defined, self-learning vehicles capable of adapting to changing road and driver conditions.
The collaboration also accelerates Hyundai’s work on digital twin systems, which create virtual models of vehicles to simulate performance and optimize efficiency in real time—critical for next-generation EVs and autonomous mobility solutions.
Privacy and Transparency at the Core
While AI enhances personalization, Hyundai emphasizes data privacy and user control. The IONIQ 9 processes personal data locally whenever possible, encrypts all transmissions, and ensures that voice data is not permanently stored. Customers can manage or delete all connected data through the MyHyundai platform’s “My Data and Privacy” section, reflecting Hyundai’s commitment to transparency and trust.
Setting a New Benchmark in AI-Driven EVs
The Hyundai IONIQ 9 isn’t just another electric SUV—it represents the fusion of electrification and artificial intelligence. With predictive systems, natural language interaction, and advanced safety automation, Hyundai is positioning the IONIQ 9 as a leader in AI-powered electric mobility, setting new standards for the future of connected driving.
