Environment
Hyundai is halting IONIQ 5 and Kona EV production in Korea for the fourth time this year
For the fourth time this year, Hyundai is temporarily halting EV production in Korea. Starting June 25, Hyundai will suspend output on a line at its Ulsan Plant dedicated to building the IONIQ 5 and Kona Electric.
Why is Hyundai halting EV production in Korea again?
After pausing production at its Ulsan Plant 1 in Korea in February, April, and May, Hyundai is set to do it again in June.
According to industry sources, Hyundai will halt production on Line 2 at its Ulsan Plant 1, which produces IONIQ 5 and Kona EV models. The suspension begins on Wednesday, June 25, and will last for only three days, ending on June 27.
Although some believe it’s a sign of slowing demand for electric vehicles, Hyundai may simply be adjusting its inventory.
Like most of the industry, the Hyundai Motor Group, including Kia, is competing for its share of the global market against low-cost competitors like BYD, which is quickly expanding overseas. The news comes after a report on Wednesday claimed BYD is also slowing production in China.
Exports of the popular IONIQ 5 declined 69% last month to 2,449 units, down from nearly 8,000 in May 2024. Kona EV exports also fell sharply to 234 units, representing an 83.3% decrease from last year.
In Europe, Hyundai and Kia’s vehicle registrations are down 5%through May compared to the same period last year.
Although Hyundai and Kia’s exports to the US were down 21.5% last month to 77,892 units, it’s likely due to local production coming online.
Hyundai celebrated the grand opening of its massive new EV plant in Georgia earlier this year, Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America (HMGMA). Hyundai has been building the new 2025 IONIQ 5 at the facility since last year, while its first three-row electric SUV, the IONIQ 9, joined it in March.
The new facility is capable of producing up to 300,000 vehicles a year, but capacity could be expanded to around 500,000 if needed.
Hyundai’s electric vehicles remain among the most affordable and efficient EVs available in the US. The new 2026 Hyundai IONIQ 9 starts at $60,555 with a range of up to 335 miles. Like the new IONIQ 5, Hyundai’s three-row electric SUV features a built-in NACS port, allowing it to charge at Tesla Superchargers.
The upgraded 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5, now with a range of up to 318 miles and an improved style both inside and out, starts at $42,500.
| 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5 Trim | EV Powertrain | Driving Range (miles) | Starting Price* | Monthly lease price June 2025 |
| IONIQ 5 SE RWD Standard Range | 168-horsepower rear motor | 245 | $42,500 | $179 |
| IONIQ 5 SE RWD | 225-horsepower rear motor | 318 | $46,550 | $199 |
| IONIQ 5 SEL RWD | 225-horsepower rear motor | 318 | $49,500 | $209 |
| IONIQ 5 Limited RWD | 225-horsepower rear motor | 318 | $54,200 | $309 |
| IONIQ 5 SE Dual Motor AWD | 320-horsepower dual motor | 290 | $50,050 | $249 |
| IONIQ 5 SEL Dual Motor AWD | 320-horsepower dual motor | 290 | $53,000 | $259 |
| IONIQ 5 XRT Dual Motor AWD | 320 horsepower dual motor | 259 | $55,400 | $359 |
| IONIQ 5 Limited Dual Motor AWD | 320-horsepower dual motor | 269 | $58,100 | $299 |
After Hyundai cut lease prices last month, you can now snag the 2025 IONIQ 5 for as little as $179 per month. The IONIQ 9 is listed for lease starting at $419 per month. Both are still eligible for the $7,500 federal tax credit, as long as it remains in effect.
To throw in a little extra, Hyundai is offering a free ChargePoint Home Flex Level 2 charger with the purchase of any new 2026 IONIQ 9 or 2025 IONIQ 5.
Looking to test one out for yourself? We can help you get started. You can use our link to find Hyundai IONIQ 5 and IONIQ 9 models in your area.
Source: Newsis
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