Kia reveals the highly anticipated EV9
Kia has finally revealed its brand-new electric SUV - the EV9. It is the Korean brand's first three-row electric vehicle.
Its bold styling and sophisticated elegance, both inside and out, represents a pivotal step forward in Kia's journey towards becoming a global leader in electric driving.
The EV9 joins the Kia EV6 GT, the Soul EV and the all-new Niro EV in Kia's growing line-up of battery electric cars. Kia aims to expand its EV roster even further throughout the decade, as part of its 'Plan S'.
The anticipation surrounding the EV9 even led to it winning an award before it had even been fully revealed. It was presented with the 'Readers' Choice Award' at the WhatCar? Awards, as it was the car their readers were most excited about in 2023 - based entirely on the EV9 concept car!
Karim Habib is the Executive Vice President and Head of Kia Global Design Centre. He said: “The Kia EV9 breaks new ground, aiming to redefine standards for design, connectivity, usability, and environmental responsibility.
“The EV9 offers customers an exceptionally high-quality proposition and a fresh EV perspective in the family SUV sector. This new vehicle typology provides instinctive experiences and excellent comfort for not just the driver, but all occupants, through innovative use of space, technology, and design.”
EV9 exterior design
The EV9 has been created with the 'Bold for Nature' aspect of Kia's 'Opposites United' design philosophy. Inspiration has been taken to bring together the best elements of the natural and material worlds. The result is a combination of rugged capability for all driving conditions, with the serenity of a sophisticated EV that paves the way for future SUV design.
The front of the EV9 is accentuated by the 'Digital Pattern Lighting Grille' and striking vertical headlamps. The EV9's signature 'Digital Tiger Face' imparts a visionary and futuristic look and feel.
The innovative 'Star Map' daytime running lights create an animated lighting pattern that denotes Kia's Digital Tiger Face for the brand's future EV models.
The side profile of the EV9 effortlessly combines a strong SUV identity with exceptional aerodynamic efficiency. Flush door handles and a tapered back roofline give a sense of smooth and efficient motion. At the rear, the simple, clean lines of the tailgate further reflect the EV9's strong and confident stance, while the elegantly detailed slim rear light lights mirror those at the front.
EV9 interior design
On the inside, Kia has used their 'Technology for Life' mantra to ensure that only technology and innovation that promote positive, intuitive interactions between humans and machines are created - realising new possibilities for mobility. It has enabled Kia's designers to prioritise space, comfort and technology for all passengers.
The EV9 is built on Kia's Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP). Its long wheelbase, low beltline and completely flat EV architecture have allowed for the creation of generous space for all occupants. All three rows of seats give you the chance to connect and relax with lounge-style comfort.
Those sitting in the front two rows of seats can simultaneously recline their seats to relax while the EV9 is charging. In an exciting new innovation, the middle row seats can swivel 180 degrees so that the occupants can interact face-to-face with those seated in the third row. The back row of seats also offers cup holders and mobile device charging points.
The open, floating panoramic dashboard features two 12.3-inch touchscreens, integrated with one five-inch segment display that improves the overall digital experience. It offers effortless control of the vehicle's many functions and ensures physical buttons are kept to a minimum.
The central console is equipped with ample storage space to eliminate clutter and adds to the overall interior capacity.
The EV9's extended display HD audio visual navigation and telematics (AVNT) screen creates an immersive experience. Beneath the AVNT are the controls for the start/stop function, heating ventilation and air conditioning.
When can I drive the EV9?
The EV9 is expected to hit Kia showrooms in the latter half of 2023. In the meantime, you can explore the Kia range that boasts some amazing EVs, hybrids and plug-in hybrids!
