Kia EV9 concept previews new range-topping electric SUV

Kia has uncovered its EV9 concept at the Los Angeles motor show, giving an insight into how its future range-topping electric SUV might look.

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As with the Hyundai Seven concept also debuted at the show, it’s based on Hyundai Motor Group’s dedicated E-GMP electric platform, already the basis for the Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6.

Similar in size to the current Telluride SUV sold in the US, it’s billed as a high-tech, family-friendly vehicle powered by a zero-emissions all-electric powertrain.

Not much is known about the powertrain on the concept but it’s believed to be powered by a 77.4kWh battery, giving a range of up to 300 miles.

Thanks to the E-GMP platform, it also features next-generation ultra-fast charging technology with a 350kW charger that gives a 10 to 80% charge in 20-30 minutes.

Exterior design uses a new interpretation of Kia’s Tiger Face façade, reworked for the BEV era due to the lack of need for a traditional grille. Instead, the new Digital Tiger Face uses a re-style grille and air vent design, the latter also improving aerodynamics, along with signature vertical daytime running lamps (DRLs) for both the front and rear. A DLO panoramic sky roof also features, as do machined 22-inch wheels.

Vehicle design also incorporates nature-inspired elements and uses upcycled materials developed from waste deposited into the marine ecosystem, while the interior space takes inspiration from the ‘Water Element’ of the brand’s Opposites United design language. Recycled fishing nets have been used to create the floor of the vehicle and seating fabric is made from recycled plastic bottles and recycled wool fibres. Vegan leather is used throughout the interior; part of Kia’s plans to gradually reduce the use of animal leather in all its vehicles, due to ethical and sustainable concerns.

The three-row seat configuration can be adapted to suit different interior modes, include switching around the front and third rows and turning the second row into a table when stationary.

Equipment includes an interactive 27-inch ultra-wide display, providing access to media, climate control and comfort functionality features, and a pop-up steering pad.

The reveal of the EV9 concept comes just weeks after the brand revealed plans to become a sustainable Mobility Solutions Provider, along with the intention to achieve carbon neutrality throughout the company’s value chain by 2045.

Karim Habib, senior vice president and head of Kia Global Design Center, said: “The Kia Concept EV9 is yet another important marker for us in what has been an incredible journey since the start of the year.

“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 together an advanced zero-emissions powertrain, a cutting-edge exterior design and a contemporary and innovative tech-based interior space.”

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Natalie Middleton

Natalie has worked as a fleet journalist for over 20 years, previously as assistant editor on the former Company Car magazine before joining Fleet World in 2006. Prior to this, she worked on a range of B2B titles, including Insurance Age and Insurance Day.