Kia details production EV9

Kia has unveiled the production version of the EV9 large electric EV and is taking pre-registrations for its arrival here late this year.

Built on the same electric global modular platform (E-GMP) as the EV6, the EV9 can seat up to seven with a targeted all-electric WLTP range of more than 541km.

Additionally, its ultra-fast 800-volt charging capability allows the battery pack to regain sufficient charge for 239km in about 15 minutes.

The EV9 will feature a highway driving pilot (HDP) system for conditional Level 3 autonomous driving in selected markets.

It also introduces the Kia Connect Store, enabling customers to purchase digital features and services on demand and upgrade their EV9’s capabilities via over-the-air (OTA) updates. Options include a lighting pattern feature, a boost feature for increased performance, and remote smart parking assist 2 (RSPA 2).

The EV9 is large – featuring a 3100mm wheelbase and a choice of 21-inch, 20-inch, or 19-inch wheels. Its unique “Digital Tiger Face” and “Star Map” LED daytime running lights (DRL) keep it true to the futuristic concept car, though the suicide doors have been culled in the move closer to market.

Also gone is the square steering wheel, while seating configurations include four second-row seat options, including three-seater bench seats, basic-type, relaxation-type, and swivel-type two-seater independent seats.

The EV9’s electric drivetrain utilises Kia’s fourth-generation battery technology. A 76.1kWh battery is exclusive to the rear-wheel drive (RWD) Standard model, while a 99.8-kWh battery is available for both the RWD Long Range and all-wheel drive (AWD) variants.

With an impressive aerodynamic coefficient of 0.28, the EV9 combines advanced features like a 3D-sculpted underbody cover, aerodynamic wheels, and integrated air curtains to optimise performance, efficiency, and driving experience.

Kia’s HDP system unlocks conditional Level 3 autonomy for the EV9, using 15 sensors to detect and react to road conditions and other users. The HDP will be offered in the EV9 GT-line model in the future, with more details to be disclosed later.

The EV9 is packed with driver assistance and safety features which include RSPA 2, blind-spot collision-avoidance assist (BCA), lane keeping assist (LKA), intelligent speed limit assist (ISLA), rear cross-traffic collision avoidance (RCCA), and parking collision avoidance assist (PCA).

Kia plans to offer the EV9 for pre-order in the Korean market in the second quarter of 2023, with sales in selected global markets starting in the second half of the year.

The EV9 is set to make its physical debut at the 2023 Seoul Mobility Show on March 30-April 9, and it will be showcased at the 2023 New York International Auto Show, April 7-16.