who makes the ion car

[DelLukas]

The Ioniq line of electric vehicles is made by Hyundai Motor Company. Initially launched as a single model, the Ioniq brand has evolved into Hyundai's dedicated sub-brand for electric vehicles, featuring models like the Ioniq 5, Ioniq 6, and the upcoming Ioniq 7. This strategic move allows Hyundai to compete directly with other EV-focused lineups like Tesla's models or Ford's Mustang Mach-E.

The development and manufacturing are spearheaded by Hyundai's global R&D centers, with production primarily occurring in South Korea. Notably, the Ioniq 5 is also built at Hyundai's state-of-the-art plant in Montgomery, Alabama, for the North American market. This domestic production is a significant advantage for American buyers, potentially simplifying the supply chain and making them eligible for federal EV tax incentives, depending on specific battery sourcing and MSRP requirements.

Hyundai has invested heavily in the dedicated E-GMP (Electric-Global Modular Platform) that underpins these models. This platform is key to their performance, offering features like ultra-fast charging (capable of going from 10% to 80% charge in approximately 18 minutes under ideal conditions), spacious interiors due to the flat floor, and available Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality that lets you power external devices.

Ioniq Model	Key Differentiator	Estimated Range (EPA)	0-60 mph (approx.)	Starting MSRP (approx.)
Ioniq 5	Crossover SUV with retro-futuristic design	Up to 303 miles	4.5 sec (AWD)	~$41,800
Ioniq 6	Streamlined sedan with exceptional aerodynamics	Up to 361 miles	5.1 sec (AWD)	~$37,500
Ioniq 7 (Upcoming)	Large, three-row SUV	TBA	TBA	TBA

When considering an Ioniq, it's important to research the current federal tax credit status and compare real-world range figures, which can vary based on driving habits and climate. Hyundai's warranty, including a 10-year/100,000-mile warranty on the battery, is a major factor for long-term ownership.

[VonJasmine]

It’s Hyundai. They’ve really gone all-in on EVs with the Ioniq brand. I’ve got an Ioniq 5, and it’s a blast to drive. The design turns heads, and the fact that a good chunk of them are built right here in Alabama was a nice bonus. You’re not just buying a car; you’re buying into a whole new platform Hyundai designed from the ground up for electricity.

[DeBrayden]

From an industry standpoint, the Ioniq is Hyundai's strategic answer to the growing EV market. They created a separate sub-brand to give these electric models a distinct identity, much like Toyota did with Lexus. The manufacturing is global, but for the US, the Ioniq 5's assembly in Montgomery is a critical piece of the puzzle for pricing and supply chain efficiency. It's a clear commitment to capturing market share.

[LeAniyah]

As a practical buyer, my main question was, "Who stands behind this car?" The answer is Hyundai, which was reassuring. They have a strong dealer network for service and that fantastic warranty. Knowing the Ioniq 5 is made stateside also influenced my decision—it felt like a more local product. For an everyday EV, the brand's reputation for reliability and support was as important as the car's specs.

[KatherineRose]

I see it as Hyundai making a bold design statement. The Ioniq 5, for instance, doesn’t look like any other SUV on the road. It’s a deliberate move by Hyundai’s design team to signal that this isn’t just another electric conversion of a gas car. They’re building a unique aesthetic for the electric age, and it’s working. The manufacturer is Hyundai, but the vision is clearly forward-looking and distinct from their conventional lineup.