Hyundai launches the range-topping IONIQ 9 Calligraphy Black Ink in the UK and Europe

This news is about a new vehicle trim, not a home energy upgrade, so it doesn't affect your house or any rebate program. Still, here's what happened: Hyundai is rolling out a new top-of-the-line version of its electric IONIQ 9 SUV, called the Calligraphy Black Ink, in the UK and Europe. It sits above the current Calligraphy trim as the new flagship model.

The Black Ink version is mostly about looks and price, not new technology. It uses the same dual-motor all-wheel-drive setup and 110-kWh battery as the existing Calligraphy trim, putting out 422 horsepower and a rated range of up to 372 miles. What's different is styling: a blacked-out Hyundai emblem, new 21-inch wheels, a gloss black rear trim piece, and an all-black leather interior. In the UK and Europe it comes in black or white paint; in the US it will only be sold in black.

Pricing starts at £79,320 (about $107,000) in the UK and €89,950 (about $104,000) in Germany. Hyundai has not announced a US price yet, but based on the cost of the current top Calligraphy trim, the US version is expected to run around $85,000 when it arrives. None of this involves home electrification incentives, EV chargers, or utility rebates — it's simply a new luxury trim for an existing electric SUV.