Kia reveals EV9 concept at AutoMobility LA

Following the launch of the EV6, the Kia Concept EV9 unveiled at the LA Auto Show hints at the next model in Kia’s dedicated EV line-up.

It has about 480km range, ultra-fast charging technology with a 350kW charger providing 10% to 80% recharge in 20-30 minutes, is 4.930mm metres long, 2.055m wide, 1.790m high and has a 3.100m wheelbase.

The all-electric SUV concept embodies Kia’s commitment to sustainability, following the recently showcased ‘Kia Sustainability Movement’ vision.

Opposites United, the new design language from Kia, heavily influences the Concept EV9’s adventurous and angular exterior.

The Concept EV9 uses the company’s advanced electric global modular platform (E-GMP) and incorporates upcycled materials developed from waste in the marine ecosystem.

“The Kia Concept EV9 is yet another important marker for us in what has been an incredible journey since the start of the year,” Kia senior vice president and global design centre head Karim Habib says.

“Having made our intentions clear – to become a global leader in sustainable mobility solutions – we are proud to show the world our all-electric SUV concept, which fuses together an advanced zero-emissions powertrain, a cutting-edge exterior design and a contemporary and innovative tech-based interior space.”

Taking inspiration from the ‘Bold for Nature’ design pillar of Opposites United, the Concept EV9 embodies an adventurous, outgoing and recreational form with its rugged and upright stance. From the outside, such proportions help outline a three-row SUV footprint, signifying a vehicle that is highly capable, practical and ready for action.

A low gravity side body creates maximum and instant impact with the sharp crystalline-inspired fender volumes that sit high up on the vehicle.

Kia’s iconic Tiger Face facade has been reinterpreted for the BEV era and is showcased on the Concept EV9.

The new BEV-focused grille houses an intricate star cloud pattern display hidden behind the body panel of the Concept EV9 when not in use. This stylish lightshow further highlights the high-tech nature of the all-electric SUV while still paying homage to the natural world. Sequential patterns create a ‘welcome light’ for the driver and also function to appropriately position lights during driving.

It has a new air vent design that improves aerodynamics and the hood vent duct area is utilised as a solar panel that helps recuperate some electric energy, providing an alternative energy source.

Retractable roof rails that close into the roof of the Concept EV9 when not in use ensure smooth airflow over the vehicle, the roof rails raised by the touch of a button.

A camera monitoring system replaces conventional wing mirrors and further improves aerodynamics.

An innovative d-pillar design creates a daylight opening (DLO) signature, while the Concept EV9 also has a DLO panoramic sky roof.

Machined 22-inch wheels add to the geometric appearance, and a triangular aero design piece controls the airflow around the wheel.

An interactive 27-inch ultra-wide display serves as the nerve centre for all driver and passenger requirements, including media, climate control and comfort functionality features, and steering is via a pop-up steering pad.

It has three forward-thinking interior modes that capture different journey situations and requirements. Active Mode is when the Concept EV9 is on the move, making sure the driver and passengers have an optimal driving experience.

The other two modes apply when the EV is stationary. Pause Mode modifies the interior space to be more akin to a first-class lounge, allowing occupants to directly interact with each other while benefiting from the light from the wide panoramic roof. In this mode, the seats switch around to enable occupants seated in the first row and third row to face each other. The second-row seats fold down and become a table.

The second stationary mode is Enjoy Mode, which opens the interior into a downtime breakout space by turning around the three-row seat configuration. In this mode, the tailgate opens, allowing occupants to connect with the outside environment and gaze ahead and beyond the vehicle while sitting comfortable inside.

The Concept EV9 took further inspiration from the ‘Water Element’ of Opposites United, taking on characteristics that relate to serenity, calmness and wellbeing, such as the exterior colour mimicking ocean depth with a clear blue sky that radiates throughout the interior.

Recycled fishnets have been used to help create the flooring, and seating fabric is made from recycled plastic bottles and recycled wool fibres. Vegan leather is used throughout the interior space with Kia planning to gradually reduce use of animal leather in all its vehicles.

The Concept EV9 is on display at AutoMobility LA and the LA Auto Show until November 28.