Hyundai and custom vehicle creators BigTime have revealed the IONIQ 9 Off-Road Concept at the 2025 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, introducing a rugged, lifted version of the all-electric SUV that merges vintage styling with modern electric performance.
Co-developed with BigTime founders Jeremiah Burton and Zach Jobe, the concept was showcased in SEMA’s Future Tech Studio — a section dedicated to electric mobility and advanced vehicle innovation.
Based on the IONIQ 9 Calligraphy AWD, the BigTime Off-Road Concept delivers up to 422 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, maintaining the vehicle’s refined performance while incorporating new off-road capability.
The SUV features a lifted suspension, aggressive all-terrain tires, custom wheels, and auxiliary light bars, all contributing to its adventure-ready character. “Its aggressive lift, all-terrain tires, and rugged design inspire both innovation and customization — the hallmarks of any successful SEMA concept,” said Sean Gilpin, Chief Marketing Officer at Hyundai Motor North America.
BigTime’s design takes cues from the group’s vintage 1977 cabover truck nicknamed “Bud,” blending nostalgic styling with Hyundai’s electric platform. “We themed this IONIQ 9 off of our vintage cabover ‘Bud,’ blending new tech with a nostalgic look to make it a capable and character-filled off-roader,” said Zach Jobe, co-founder of BigTime. The project will also be chronicled through social media content, showcasing the customization process and underscoring that electric vehicles can be both expressive and performance-driven.
Hyundai continues to strengthen its technology-focused lineup in the United States, supported by its manufacturing and R&D operations, including Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama and the Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America. Collectively, Hyundai’s U.S. operations contribute an estimated $20.1 billion annually to the economy and support about 190,000 jobs nationwide.