Kia plans 'game changer' EV9 launch in US by 4th quarter

South Korean carmaker Kia Corp. on Thursday said it unveiled on Wednesday in New York its large electric sport-utility vehicle EV9 for the first time in North America at this year's New York International Auto Show at the Javits Center.

Debuting last month, the EV9 is Kia's second all-electric vehicle (EV) using the Electric Global Modular Platform of Hyundai Motor Group.

"The EV9 is a model borne from Kia's SUV know-how and EV expertise," said Kia America President and CEO Sean Yoon. "Based on its high marketability, it will set new standards for large electric SUVs with all specifications that satisfy North American customers."

The EV9 boasts new technologies such as self-navigation on highways through an advanced driving assistance function and wireless software updates, as well as a large-capacity battery of 99.8 kilowatt hours. The carmaker's goal is for certification of driving distance of over 500 km on a single charge based on Korean standards.

Set for release in North America in the fourth quarter this year, the EV9 will be produced from next year at Kia's plant in West Point, Georgia, as the company's first all-electric model manufactured on the continent.

At the auto show, Kia is displaying 24 other models like the compact crossover EV6 GT, mid-size SUV Telluride, hybrid EVs Sorento and Sportage, and subcompact SUV Niro EV at an exhibition space of 1,887 square meters.

Write to Nan-Sae Bin at binthere@hankyung.com