South-Korean automaker Kia cars is expected to globally unveil the production version of the EV9 SUV this month. Showcased for the first time as a concept in India during the recently concluded 2023 Delhi Auto Expo, the EV9 will sit above the EV6 in the brand’s electric portfolio. Prior to this, the EV was showcased at the LA Motor Show in November 2021. To get more insights into the upcoming electric SUV let us take a closer look at its design, platform, powertrain and features.
Kia EV9: Exterior Design and Platform
From a design standpoint, the Kia EV9 Concept which was showcased at the Delhi Auto Expo 2023 looked quite attractive. It will be a full blown electric SUV that will provide a wide front and rear end, while the overall profile of the vehicle will be boxy with vertically stacked headlights and DRLs. As per the brand, the EV9 is being aimed at premium SUV buyers therefore do not expect big numbers in relation to sales.
Like all other recent Hyundai and KIA EVs, the upcoming EV9 will be underpinned by the group’s E-GMP modular skateboard platform. In fact, it will be the largest model yet to use the architecture. The automaker says that the electric SUV has been under development for 44 months, and is currently undergoing testing on European roads.
Kia EV9: Powertrain Details
While powertrain details are yet to be confirmed, the EV9 is expected to feature at least two battery pack options at launch. This includes an entry level single rear-axle mounted motor model and a dual-motor AWD.
The EV9’s E-GMP platform also has an 800V electrical architecture that allows up to 350 kW fast charging. A 64 kWh battery pack in this architecture takes just 7 minutes to charge from 20 to 80 percent.
Read Also: Kia EV9 Concept Showcased at Auto Expo 2023
Kia EV9: Other Features
The EV9 will become the first Kia to be offered with the brand’s autonomous driving technology, dubbed ‘Automode’. The SUV will also support OTA (Over-The-Air) updates and FOD (Feature-On-Demand). Feature on Demand will allow Kia to sell fewer variants of cars, with owners purchasing the specific features as per their needs and preferences. The automaker hopes it becomes an integral part of its future business model. Brands like BMW have already started offering FOD services on its new models.
Read Also: Kia to Launch 2 New EVs by 2025
