Kia reveals range-topping EV9 seven-seat electric SUV
Kia has unveiled its EV9 seven-seat electric SUV, which aims “to redefine standards for design, connectivity, usability and environmental responsibility”.
The flagship new model goes on sale toward the end of 2023, joining the EV6 launched last year as part of the brand’s ‘Plan S’ blueprint for a 14-strong fully electric model line-up by 2027.
Similar in size to the current Telluride SUV sold in the US, it’s based on the same E-GMP dedicated EV platform as the EV6, but with third-row seating and the choice of six- and seven-seat formats. Seats in the second row will be available with a swivel function, enabling passengers to interact with those sitting in the third row. The third-row seats also come with cup holders and charging points for mobile devices.
Performance and technical details have not been announced but Kia has previously said that range will be up to 336 miles (540km).
As with the EV6 and the sister Hyundai Ioniq 5 and 6, the 800V-equipped E-GMP platform will enable rapid charging at 350kW, giving a 10 to 80% charge in some 20-30 minutes.
The design strategy fuses a strong SUV identity with elegant EV styling, inspired by Kia’s ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy and intended to express “confidence, clarity, and calmness”. Key elements ‘Star Map LED daytime running lights’ which display animated lighting patterns to give a digital version of the brand’s ‘Tiger Face’ that will be used for future EV models, replacing the ‘Tiger Grille’ on ICE models.
The exterior also features flush door handles, tapered back roofline and a simplistic rear-end design with slim tail-lights.
The cabin uses a spacious, light and airy design, featuring an open, floating panoramic dashboard that extends from the steering wheel to the vehicle’s centre. This integrates a trio of screens – two 12.3-inch touchscreens and a 5.0-inch segment display – to display driver and infotainment info.
The Kia EV9 will make its global premiere in late March with the slogan, ‘Here to reshape the way we move.’
Karim Habib, executive vice president and head of Kia Global Design Center, said: “The Kia 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.”
Pricing details have not been revealed yet but are expected to start at around £60k.
Natalie Middleton
Natalie has worked as a fleet journalist for nearly 20 years, previously as assistant editor on the former Company Car magazine before joining Fleet World in 2006. Prior to this, she worked on a range of B2B titles, including Insurance Age and Insurance Day. Natalie edits all the Fleet World websites and newsletters, and loves to hear about any latest industry news - or gossip.
