The new Kia EV9 is an electric SUV that will go on sale during the second half of 2023. This amazing model embodies the transition towards full electrification of the Korean manufacturer's range of cars, which seeks to become more than just a brand, in provider of sustainable mobility solutions.
Not surprisingly, Kia is committed to becoming a leader in sustainable mobility and achieving carbon neutrality by 2045. In this way, in addition to manufacturing 0-emission cars, it has also adopted a commitment to the materials used to manufacture them.
And the brand new EV9, in this sense, constitutes a new reference, with ecological materials that establish new standards in respectful mobility with the environment. And it reaches a milestone by being the first Kia model to adopt the brand's three-step design sustainability strategy.
This strategy consists of phasing out the use of leather, applying ten sustainable must-haves to all new Kia models, and continually increasing the use of bio-based materials, such as corn, sugar cane or natural oils.
This new family SUV marks a before and after in the Korean brand. Large, spacious and technological, it continues the family of electric vehicles that began with the EV6. Its price will probably exceed 65,000 euros and with this original SUV Kia gives, at the same time, a leap in quality and positioning in the market. It is built on the basis of the EV6 and uses the same modular platform created exclusively for electric vehicles (E-GMP). And Kia has announced that it will have an electric range of up to 541 km, in the current WLTP approval.
A new evolutionary step, without a doubt, of the electric car, since it will have the ultra-fast charging capacity of 800 volts that allows electricity to be recovered to travel 239 km in just 15 minutes.
Bigger and heavier than an EV6, it will require more features. For this, it will have two batteries available, the 76.1 kWh one for the rear-wheel drive EV9 and the 99.8 kWh one for the long-range RWD and AWD (all-wheel drive). The basic version will have a 150 kW (204 hp) engine, the long-range RWD will go to 160 kW (218 hp) while at the top of the range the power increases to 283 kW (385 hp).
Kia has also explained that there will be a high-performance GT version, with an approximate power of 585 hp. On the other hand, the EV9 will incorporate the Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) function, already known, which allows its owner to use the car battery for other uses. For example, to charge computers, smartphones, camping equipment or even charge the battery of another electric car.
Kia reinvents the concept of the family SUV, with a new design philosophy that seeks a unique balance of natural elements. The exterior of this advanced SUV, which measures five meters in length, conveys a feeling of serenity, but also of robustness. And the long wheelbase allows for a spacious and comfortable interior.
At the front we find a new version of Kia's signature Tiger Face grille and distinctive vertical headlamps. This part integrates two groups of small cubic lamps in each headlight. And the LED daytime running lights create a lively pattern of lighting that's very colorful.
The seats are designed to meet different needs. It can have six or seven seats, depending on the interior configuration. With the relax-type seats in the second row, it is possible to fully recline. And with the option of swivel seats, those in the second row rotate 180º to allow conversation with the occupants of the third row.
In the cockpit, the logo on the steering wheel lights up when the car is started, and the dashboard has a minimalist horizontal design, with the extended screen concept so fashionable. And the mirrors, as Audi did, are digital.
The autonomous driving system on the highway (Highway Driving Pilot HDP), available later in the EV9 GT Line, will allow, in some markets, to reach level 3 of autonomous driving. 15 sensors will be able to scan objects in a 360º environment and detect and react based on what happens around the car to avoid accidents. Thus, the car will be capable of automating driving, allowing the driver to leave the wheel and temporarily rest from controlling the vehicle.
Kia has studied a wide range of functions for the users of its new family SUV. Without the need to take the car to the dealer, the owner will be able to update all of his vehicle's software remotely and at any time with the Kia Connect Store. There will even be the possibility of obtaining an increase in performance through the optional Boost function. Or add digital features and services of all kinds.
In security and driving assistance systems (ADAS) it is worth mentioning the remote intelligent parking assistance 2 (RSPA 2). This technology allows the EV9 to be parked remotely, from the smartphone and outside the vehicle.
Finally, it should be noted that Kia will shortly launch a global campaign under the statement "We redefine the way of moving", with the new EV9 as the flagship.
