All-electric Hyundai IONIQ 9 trialled by National Highways as all-electric Traffic Officer vehicle
You may have seen them tucked away in a side ramp on the motorway, or lending assistance to stranded vehicles at the side of the road, and maybe you’ve even been behind one as they conduct a rolling road block, as I have been once or twice.
What isn’t discussed in wider circles are the cars used. Undoubtedly, National Highways choose reliable workhorses for a dependable service that covers our motorway network.
However, they are now seeking an EV for their next vehicle choice, as they trial the rather excellent Hyundai IONIQ 9.
Hyundai Motor UK said that it “has supplied four all-electric Hyundai IONIQ 9 SUVs to National Highways for trial on England's motorways and major A-roads by serving Traffic Officers.”
The IONIQ 9 comes with a large 110.3 kWh battery which translates to a range of up to 385 miles on the WLTP test cycle. Recharging can be done via a 350 kW rapid charger, with a 10% to 80% charge taking just 24 minutes thanks to its 800V architecture.
Importantly, the IONIQ 9 has up to 908 litres of boot space with the third-row seats folded, plus the rest of the cabin offers a very spacious and flexible - if not comfortable - interior for those shifts behind the wheel.
Richell Vehicle Conversions (RVC)
Each of the four test vehicles was converted by Richell Vehicle Conversions and finished in official National Highways livery with all the essential ‘high-vis’ decals, emergency lighting and the full compliment of on-board equipment.
The trial aims to assess how the electro-barge performs in frontline operational use whilst producing zero tailpipe emissions, offering a long electric range, ultra-rapid DC charging and, importantly, enough load capacity to carry all the essentials required for emergency response duties.
A separate 240 Ah lithium auxiliary battery keeps the emergency response systems separate from the vehicle’s own low-voltage or high voltage battery.
Richell Vehicle Conversions says “this is built around a lightbar, a 100W bullhorn and an extensive array of amber and red warning LEDs, alongside further lighting on the wing mirrors, rear screen and tailgate, plus a flip-up Standby Traffic Commander matrix board for incident messaging”.
The IONIQ 9 in its converted specification is being assessed for operational suitability, equipment integration, charging performance and the ability to support National Highways' work. If its successful, and subject to the outcome of the trial, National Highways is considering further purchases during 2026.
Ashley Andrew, President of Hyundai & Genesis UK, said: “This trial demonstrates IONIQ 9’s capability in demanding real-world roles, combining zero-emission performance, practicality and rapid charging to support National Highways’ vital work.”
Hyundai IONIQ 9 in National Highway Livery Converted by RVC
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About the Author
Graeme Cobb is a lifelong car enthusiast with a passion for writing about cars, EVs, industry updates and more.
You can find Graeme on 𝕏 at @graeme_cobb
