As the electric vehicle (EV) market continues to evolve, the Hyundai Ioniq 9 has captured attention, not just for its performance but also for its innovative design features. Among these, the placement of the start/stop button has sparked both interest and debate among automotive enthusiasts.
A Closer Look at the Start/Stop Button Placement
Automotive journalist Amanda Cline recently shared her observations about the Ioniq 9 in a TikTok video. Unlike traditional automatic vehicles that have a conventional gear shifter, the Ioniq 9 features a rotary shift lever known as the “PRNDL,” which encompasses the start/stop function. Situated on the left side of this lever, the button has raised eyebrows due to its unconventional location.
Cline humorously noted that the button’s placement might remind some viewers of the classic toy “Bop It,” emphasizing that it is both unique and a bit puzzling at first glance. This design choice invites curiosity—drivers must press the brake and the start/stop button to get the vehicle ready for action.
User Experience: Functional Yet Unconventional
In her video, Cline elaborated on the operation of the rotary shifter. To shift into reverse, for instance, drivers need to flip the lever creatively, and the system provides immediate feedback through vibrations and the activation of rear-view cameras. She pointed out, however, a potential drawback: the button’s location may not be intuitively obvious, adding a slight learning curve for new drivers.
While Cline enjoys many of the Ioniq 9’s features, she expressed mixed feelings about the placement of the start/stop button. “It’s conveniently located for hand reach, but it could be easier to find without taking your eyes off the road,” she noted, highlighting a key consideration for modern vehicle design.
Community Reactions and Comparisons
The automotive community has also weighed in on this design feature, with some users joking in the comments that the Ioniq 9 seemed to have a “DNR” (Do Not Resuscitate) command based on its unconventional shifter layout. This playful commentary illustrates the widespread interest in how automakers are rethinking traditional designs.
Interestingly, the Ioniq 5, Hyundai’s earlier model, features a similar rotary shifter, indicating that the brand is focusing on modernizing its user interface across multiple vehicles. Feedback from Ioniq 5 drivers has been mixed, with some even sharing their experiences of minor mechanical issues.
Emphasizing User Adaptability
Cline acknowledged that while the start/stop button’s placement is a talking point, drivers can quickly adapt after a few days of use. “You can operate the vehicle smoothly in one swift motion, making it user-friendly after an initial adjustment period,” she mentioned in a statement to a publication. This insight highlights the ongoing trend of manufacturers moving away from traditional shifter placements to create more space and improve accessibility.
Conclusion
The Hyundai Ioniq 9 showcases how automakers are embracing innovative designs in the electric vehicle landscape. While the start/stop button’s location may evoke mixed feelings, it ultimately represents the industry’s shift toward more modern, user-centric features. As manufacturers continue to challenge conventional automotive design, understanding user experience remains critical. For those considering the Ioniq 9, it promises a blend of technology, adaptability, and forward-thinking functionality that defines the future of driving.
Image Source: Creativa Images / Shutterstock
