Hyundai Motor America supported Operation Frodo’s latest cross-country dog rescue mission in the all-electric IONIQ 9.
In partnership with Animal Rescue Rigs, this all-volunteer crew of automotive journalists and industry professionals transported 16 endangered shelter beagles from around Omaha, Nebraska to adoptive homes in the Portland, Oregon area.
For the first time, this multi-state canine rehoming effort was conducted exclusively with a convoy of all-electric vehicles.
Established in 2022, Operation Frodo is a rescue program with a mission to transport needy dogs from the American heartland to the safety of loving adoptive families on the West Coast. The name “Frodo” honors the first dog rescued by Animal Rescue Rigs.
Hyundai provided a 2026 IONIQ 9 Calligraphy as a dedicated canine rescue vehicle and donated $6,000 to cover operational and logistics costs of Operation Frodo EV, which took place from June 7-10, 2026.
Chris Paukert, senior group manager of product public relations, Hyundai Motor America, also volunteered as a driver and dog rescuer, helping these animals reach their forever homes while demonstrating the long-distance capability of zero-emissions mobility.
“Hyundai is excited to have participated in Operation Frodo again. So many of our team members and their families are animal lovers, so we’re proud to have been able to provide a vehicle and financial support to shepherd needy dogs to their forever homes,” said Paukert. “IONIQ 9’s generous space, quiet cabin, and extended driving range makes it an ideal long-distance companion for families and man’s best friend alike.”
The Hyundai IONIQ 9 Calligraphy is photographed in California City, Calif., on Nov. 20, 2024.
The 2026 Hyundai IONIQ 9 Calligraphy pairs a spacious cabin and generous cargo space with advanced safety features and impressive charging speed, making it ideally suited for long-distance travel.
“A quiet electric SUV cannot erase what a dog has survived, but it can create a calmer place for that dog to begin to feel safe,” said automotive journalist Nik Miles, founder of Operation Frodo. “Without the support of automotive manufacturers like Hyundai, Operation Frodo simply would not exist at the scale it does today.”
About Operation Frodo and Animal Rescue Rigs
Operation Frodo is a nationwide canine rescue convoy led by Animal Rescue Rigs, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to improving shelter transport capabilities. In collaboration with numerous rescue groups, the team transports unwanted dogs from the Midwest to loving homes on the West Coast, giving each a new leash on life.