Kia’s first dedicated large electric SUV is on the verge of debut.
Kia unveiled teaser images and videos for ‘The Kia EV9’ on Thursday, two days before its full reveal.
The EV9 is the second dedicated electric model based on the E-GMP platform, following the EV6 released in 2021, and it aims to lead Kia’s transformation into an electrified and sustainable brand with this flagship SUV.
The name EV9 derives from Kia’s electric vehicle naming strategy, combining ‘EV’ to represent electric vehicles and the number ‘9’ symbolizing its position and role as a flagship within the dedicated electric vehicle lineup.
The images and video released by Kia reveal various lighting designs applied to the front and rear of the vehicle, showcasing the car’s silhouette.
The silhouette suggests that the EV9 will have a spacious interior thanks to its long wheelbase, while its body proportions reflect a traditional SUV form, signaling a new customer experience for electrified SUVs.
The front end features a clean surface where the internal combustion grille used to be, with multiple lighting elements illuminating the area, creating a futuristic atmosphere with advanced technology.
The rear design, with rear lamps positioned along the edges of the vehicle, emphasizes width and provides a bold impression while ensuring cohesiveness with the front end.
Previously, Kia showcased a concept model of the EV9 at the ‘2021 LA Auto Show’ in November 2021, followed by images of the disguised body undergoing testing at Hyundai Motor Group’s Namyang Research Center last August.
In the middle of this month, Kia plans to reveal the interior and exterior design of the EV9, with detailed product information set to be unveiled at an online event later this month.
Lee Sang-jin daedusj@autodiary.kr