The EV9 Concept was unveiled by Kia at the LA Autoshow. The sizeable three-row SUV is a precursor to a production model that will be built on the Korean group’s Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) and shares much with the SEVEN concept shown by Hyundai earlier today.
While this is very much a concept, expect the design direction to trickle down to a production version, offering an all-electric alternative to the Telluride and its competitors.
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“The Kia Concept EV9 is yet another important marker for us in what has been an incredible journey since the start of the year,” says Karim Habib, Senior Vice President and Head of Kia Global Design Center. “Having made our intentions clear – to become a global leader in sustainable mobility solutions – today we are proud to show the world our all-electric SUV concept, which fuses an advanced zero-emissions powertrain, a cutting-edge exterior design, and a contemporary and innovative tech-based interior space.”
The Design Concept
The EV9 showed the world their potential future designs, but tech specs were not disclosed. While no details about the battery were provided, it is claimed that the car has a range of 300 miles (482km). It also incorporates what Kia calls “next-generation ultra-fast charging technology,” meaning the EV9 Concept can recharge from 10 percent to 80 percent in under 30 minutes.
Related: Hyundai SEVEN Concept Previews The Ioniq 7 As An All-Electric, Autonomous-Capable SUV
The drivetrain information is also scarce, though we know E-GMP can work in either rear-wheel or all-wheel drive settings. One can only assume a production version would feature all-wheel drive, but the possibility of a two-wheel drive version can’t be discounted.
The Exterior that is Chiseled
The concept car measures 4,930mm (194 in) in length, 2,055mm (81 in) width, 1,790mm (70 in) height and has a wheelbase of 3,100mm (122 in). It is 70mm (2.76 inches) smaller than Telluride but slightly wider (65mm / 2.6in) and has a wheelbase that’s 200mm / 7.8in longer than full-size ICE SUV.
EV9 looks quite slab-sided, but it has a lot of creases. The flat sides have chamfered edges, despite looking very slab-sided. The front and rear wheel arches appear to protrude from the body. While not for everyone, it’s a bold statement of intent, with a striking design that looks to ape shapes from Jeep and Hummer.
The silhouette is said to embody an adventurous, outing, and recreational form and previews Kia’s new “Opposites United” design philosophy. While the overall proportions and side profile look similar to its Hyundai SEVEN cousin — right down to the medicine-cabinet doors and flexible interior — Kia’s take on things differentiates their large SUV concept just enough to give it its own distinct flavor. Expect a lot less of this for production.
The Digital Tiger Face: Solar Panels and Retractable Roof Rails
Frontal views highlight the exterior’s cutting-edge design. What the Korean carmaker calls its “Tiger Face” is now digital, with a full body-colored front with LED lights hiding behind the front facia. The EV9 Concept employs the usual gimmicky welcome patterns with the front lights, while the vertical daytime running lights are supposed to be the car’s signature look.
See Also: See What Kia’s 11-Member EV Range Looks Like, Including Sedans, SUVs, Hatchbacks And Shuttles
Although the Concept EV9’s hood vent duct is used as a solar panel, it cannot be determined how much power it can produce. It wouldn’t be the first time an EV has used solar panels to supplement the battery, with the Nissan Leaf incorporating a similar concept to help power ancillary functions. That said, Kia mentions that the solar panel can provide users with an alternate source of energy when not close to a charging station, implying that, in concept form at least, the EV9 could potentially recharge on the go via the sun’s rays.
Retractable roof rails increase aero efficiency. They can be lifted or lowered with the push of a button. And, like with other models in Kia’s electric range, the EV9 forgoes mirrors and opts for a “next-gen camera monitoring system.
Different interior layouts for stationary
Described as transformative, the EV9’s interior is said to integrate the qualities of nature, movement, and stillness as part of a scenic, first-class lounge. What that means is you get a panoramic roof, a 27-inch ultra-wide display, and a suspiciously yoke-like steering wheel sans stalks.
On the move, the EV9 Concept adopts the traditional seating layout — that is, all three rows face the front. However, when not moving, “Pause Mode” allows the first row and third row to face each other while the second row of seats transforms into a table arrangement.
A second stationary “mode” is named “Enjoy Mode.” In this mode, all three seat rows swivel towards the back, and the tailgate opens, allowing you to gaze upon the great outdoors in a sort-of makeshift amphitheater.
Kia’s focus on sustainability has seen the design team take inspiration from the “Water Element,” meaning that the concept’s colors are inspired by characteristics that relate to serenity, calmness, and wellbeing. The vehicle’s flooring was made of recycled fishnets. Seating fabric is also made with recycled plastic bottles, recycled wool fibers and recycled plastic bottles. In the interior, vegan leather was also used.
Is It Going to Make it into Production?
Yes, in a more refined form. The EV9 is eventually slated to become Kia’s flagship Electric SUV. This three-row vehicle will be available in the marketplace around the same date as the Hyundai Ioniq 7, which is coming to market for 2024.
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