Kia unveiled the design of the ‘EV9’ on the 15th (Wednesday).
The EV9 is a large electrified SUV based on the dedicated electric vehicle platform, E-GMP, and is a flagship model that promises to provide new inspiration.
The EV9 showcases Kia’s unique and beautiful design, which harmoniously integrates contrasting forms based on the brand’s design philosophy called ‘Opposite United’ that emphasizes a creative fusion of opposing concepts.
Kia reflected the ‘boldness harmonizing with nature’—one of the five directional aspects constituting Opposite United, which seeks the coexistence of nature’s perfection and a modern sense—into both the exterior and interior designs, efficiently and intuitively arranging various forms and specifications based on ‘technology for human life’.
The EV9 sets a standard for large electrified SUVs with its grand, luxurious, and futuristic design elements.
The front features a ‘Digital Pattern Lighting Grille’ and various lighting elements that complete the ‘Digital Tiger Face,’ signaling that the EV9 is an innovative and futuristic electric model from Kia.
The Digital Pattern Lighting Grille replaces the traditional internal combustion engine grille, giving a clean impression when not lit since it matches the vehicle’s body color. When the ‘Dynamic Welcome Light’ is activated, multiple lights dance in various patterns above the grille, enhancing the advanced electrified feel.
Flanking the grille are the ‘Small Cube Projection LED Headlamps,’ composed of many small cubes, and the ‘Starmap LED DRL (Daytime Running Lights)’ inspired by constellations, which create a harmonious design.
The side profile, which defines the vehicle’s identity, conveys the grandeur of a large SUV with a body ratio that aspires to the true essence of SUVs and a straight, poised stance.
The fender, wheel arch, and character lines are arranged with straight lines to form a polygon, evoking a sense of solidity and luxury through the contrast with the smooth and voluminous surfaces of the body.
Additionally, the low beltline extending to the third row and the long wheelbase allow the EV9 to provide a sense of openness and excellent inhabitability, unmatched by other electric vehicles.
The rear features slender and sleek ‘Starmap LED Rear Combination Lamps,’ placed along the vehicle’s edges, emphasizing its wide body while creating a cohesive aesthetic with the front.
The clean tailgate treatment featuring a hidden wiper and smooth body surfaces culminates in a confident and dynamic stance, connected with strong edges at the angular shoulder lines.
The interior features a design that actively utilizes the advantages of the E-GMP platform, characterized by a flat floor and a long wheelbase, providing outstanding spaciousness.
Moreover, the interior components such as seats and center console doors are designed to feel refined, further maximizing the sensation of space.
Rounded forms inspired by nature are applied to the crash pad, door panels, and center console, providing a sense of unity while considering usability by organizing the vehicle’s control elements in a simple and intuitive manner.
The oval forms create a visual sense of openness with their central void, while the edges apply materials that convey a sense of firmness, crafting a luxurious contrast.
Kia has introduced the ‘Panoramic Wide Display’ for the first time in the EV9, which combines 12.3-inch digital cluster and infotainment system displays with a 5-inch climate control display.
The panoramic wide display, which seamlessly connects the three screens, efficiently conveys necessary information to passengers and optimally positions vehicle control buttons to enhance space utilization.
The hidden touch buttons applied to the display’s lower garnish provide a luxurious tactile feel with haptic (vibration) feedback when touched. Additionally, essential media power/volume and climate temperature/ventilation functions that require intuitive operation while driving are physically placed on the center fascia to enhance user convenience.
The EV9 features Kia’s first column-type electronic shift lever integrated with the ignition button, assisting customers in a sequential process of vehicle use, such as starting, driving, and parking.
The center console offers a clean impression with a minimized button layout and features a lower storage compartment for added convenience. Various storage spaces, including cup holders for second-row passengers and drawer-type trays that can serve as tables, are also included.
The second row allows for flexible seating options between bench seats and individual seats for diverse configurations.
The independent seats can be selected either as: ▲ relaxation seats that transform the first and second rows into a resting position to aid passenger comfort, or ▲ swivel seats that can rotate inward 180 degrees towards the third row or 90 degrees outward towards the side door, innovatively utilizing the cabin space.
Kia anticipates that the EV9, with its customizable seat specifications to fit various lifestyles, will offer customers a new electrified mobility experience in different scenarios such as travel, charging, and relaxation.
Karim Habib, Vice President of the Kia Global Design Center, stated, “The EV9 redefines the standards for interior and exterior design, connectivity, usability, and sustainability,” and added, “By offering both drivers and passengers innovative spaces, technology, and design, we aim to provide a new EV experience.”
Meanwhile, Kia plans to reveal detailed product information for the EV9 online at the end of March and will showcase the actual vehicle for the first time to the public during the ‘2023 Seoul Mobility Show’.
By Lee Sang-Jin daedusj@autodiary.kr