Hyundai and Waymo Partner to Develop Autonomous IONIQ 5 SUVsHyundai…

Hyundai and Waymo Partner to Develop Autonomous IONIQ 5 SUVs<br><br>Hyundai and Waymo have signed a partnership agreement to collaborate on the development of fully autonomous vehicles. In the initial phase, they plan to integrate Waymo’s latest sixth-generation self-driving technology into Hyundai’s all-electric IONIQ 5 SUV. Over time, these vehicles will gradually join the Waymo One ride-hailing fleet.<br><br>The IONIQ 5 cars destined for Waymo’s operations will be assembled at Hyundai’s new electric vehicle plant in Georgia, USA, before being equipped with Waymo’s autonomous driving system. The goal is to produce a substantial number of IONIQ 5 vehicles over the coming years to support Waymo One’s expansion. Initial road tests are expected to begin by late 2025, with hopes that soon after, passengers will be able to experience rides in these cars.<br><br>Hyundai will adapt the IONIQ 5 models specifically for autonomous driving. Modifications include additional safety layers and automated doors to ensure smoother and safer rides. The IONIQ 5’s design is well-suited for Waymo’s needs: it offers ample legroom and cargo space, providing a comfortable experience even for longer trips.<br><br>In addition to its long driving range, the IONIQ 5’s 800-volt architecture enables extremely fast charging, meaning the vehicles will spend less time at charging stations and more time on the road—an essential feature for a ride-hailing service.