Electric Kia flagship to debut Q1 2023

Kia has revealed details of the final testing program of its all-electric EV9 large SUV ahead of its world debut in 2023.

The South Korean manufacturer first gave the world a preview of what will become its newest flagship model in the form of the Kia Concept EV9, unveiled at AutoMobility LA in Los Angeles last year.

Developed over 44 months to set new standards in design, performance, range, driving dynamics, technology and comfort, Kia says every facet of the EV9 is currently being pushed to the limits of durability at its Namyang R&D centre in Korea. 

During this final testing phase, the EV9 is subjected to a verification program on a 4WD climbing hill and a rough terrain track, as well as a deep-water wading test, to ensure maximum reliability in challenging conditions. Kia says it’s high-speed, handling, and low-friction tracks place every element of the EV9’s performance and roadholding under scrutiny. 

At the same time, the unforgiving cobbles of the Belgian road enable Kia’s engineers to subject the EV9’s ride comfort and build quality to the harshest possible trials. In addition to the test program at Namyang, the EV9 has also been subjected to a testing regimen in locations all over the globe.

The Kia EV9 has been developed on the company’s advanced Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP). It will follow in the footsteps of the brand’s all-electric EV6, which has garnered numerous accolades, including the European Car of the Year 2022 title.