The Game-Changing 2024 Kia EV9: The New Industry Touchstone
At the 2023 New York International Auto Show, Kia has introduced its first-ever all-electric SUV, the KIA EV9, in North America. This vehicle is the pioneer in its segment as the first three-row electric SUV from Kia, and it is also the flagship model of the global Plan S strategy. The EV9 is deemed as a trailblazer in the automotive industry.
Sean Yoon, the CEO of Kia North America and Kia America, announced that the company is bringing together their expertise in producing exceptional SUVs with their extensive knowledge in developing top-class EVs with the launch of the 2024 KIA EV9. Yoon stated that the EV9 is a reliable and valuable SUV that reflects their commitment to electrification and bringing innovative products to the market while keeping consumers in focus.
Kia views the EV9 as a key model in their future lineup of electric vehicles, positioning the company as a leader in mobility. Upholding their reputation for delivering high-quality vehicles, the three-row SUV offers important features such as spacious interiors, ample cargo space, towing capacity, advanced vehicle dynamics, luxurious interior design, and quick charging capabilities. The EV9 showcases Kia's “Opposites United” design philosophy, which blends the opposing concepts of nature and modernity to create a cohesive and balanced whole.
The EV9 is an electric vehicle built on the reliable E-GMP platform, featuring fourth-generation battery technology. It can accommodate up to seven passengers with a spacious interior and advanced in-car technology including Digital Key and Onboard Power Generator. Its 800V electrical system allows for ultrafast charging on high-speed DC chargers. The EV9 is expected to be available in the US by the fourth quarter of 2023.
The EV9 is an all-electric SUV with a rugged yet sophisticated appearance inspired by nature. It measures up to 197.4 inches in length, with a comparable height and width of up to 70.1 inches and 77.9 inches, respectively. The EV9 offers 20.2 cubic feet of cargo space with all three rows raised, and 81.9 cubic feet when both rows of rear seats are folded. Its exterior is designed with a simple stroke defining its character, similar to the Kia logo.
The EV9 has a boxy triangular design with short overhangs and a long wheelbase on modular E-GMP electric underpinnings. It features the "Tiger Face" with slim LED headlights and customizable Star Map LED animated Digital Pattern Lighting Grille. The front and rear fasciae have a futuristic touch, with slim taillights and flush door handles.
The Kia EV9's interior design incorporates nature-inspired elements through creative contrast and material use, following the "Opposites United" philosophy. E-GMP's clever packaging allows for a spacious three-row interior. The EV9 introduces the "Ten Must-Have Items" philosophy in Color, Material and Finish (CMF) for future Kia models, using non-leather polyurethane seating surfaces, select BTX-free interior trim, and partially recycled materials for fabrics and carpets, which provide a well-appointed cabin without the use of animal products.
The 2024 KIA EV9 will have the latest features from the Kia Drive Wise active driver assistance suite, including Safe Exit Assist, Safe Exit Warning, Lane Keeping Assist, High Beam Assist, Intelligent Speed Limit Assist, and Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go. It will also include a Rear-View Monitor and Surround-View Monitor with 360-degree view for parking and reversing. The EV9 will have optional Remote Smart Parking Assist 2, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist, and Parking Distance Warning Forward and Reverse for added safety during parking.
Kia's EV9 has fourth-generation battery technology and two powertrain options. The first option has a 76.1-kWh battery and 160-kW motor while the second has an optional 99.8-kWh battery. The car has four drive modes and can charge quickly with compatible DC chargers up to 230kW. The 11kW onboard charger enables Level 2 charging.
Kia is planning to launch its EV9 in the U.S. market in the fourth quarter of 2023, and it is anticipated that the vehicle will be manufactured in West Point, Georgia, from 2024 onwards. This model will be the first Kia electric vehicle to be produced locally. However, information such as the price, release date, trim specifications, and EPA-rated AER for the EV9 are still to be announced at a later date.
