Kia unveils flagship EV9 design; world premiere in March

Kia Corp. on Wednesday showcased its large flagship electric sport utility vehicle EV9 as the No. 2 South Korean carmaker is extending its EV lineup to capture the rapidly growing eco-friendly automobile market.

Kia, the automaking affiliate of the country’s top Hyundai Motor Co., plans a digital global premiere of the EV9 later this month and will exhibit the actual model at Seoul Mobility Show 2023 to be held from March 31 to April 9.

The EV9, Kia’s second model based on Hyundai Motor Group’s dedicated EV platform E-GMP, is very similar to its concept version revealed in November 2021.

The EV9, its first three-row electric SUV encapsulates bold styling and sophisticated elegance inside and out, the company said.

"The Kia EV9 breaks new ground, aiming to redefine standards for design, connectivity, usability and environmental responsibility," said Karim Habib, Kia Global Design Center’s head, in a statement.

LIGHTING GRILLE

The front of the EV9 features simple clear-cut lines and body surfaces, which exude confidence, clarity and a sense of calm in equal measure, according to Kia. It applies the digital pattern lighting grille and vertical headlamps, as well as two clusters of small cube lamps within the bodywork adjacent to each headlamp.

The side profile of the EV9 increases aerodynamic efficiency, while the rear of the vehicle is detailed by slim lights, which mirror the design of the lights at the front, the company said.

The EV9’s long wheelbase, low beltline, and completely flat EV architecture create generous space for all occupants to connect and relax with lounge-style comfort in all three rows of seats, the company said.

It is also equipped with two 12.3-inch touch screens integrated with one 5-inch segment display, which offer effortless control of the vehicle’s functions and ensure physical buttons are kept to a minimum.

Write to Hyung-Kyu Kim at khk@hankyung.com
 
Jongwoo Cheon edited this article.