Kia has dropped its first teaser for the upcoming Auto Expo 2023, confirming that it will showcase the EV9 electric concept SUV. Kia had first showcased the EV9 electric concept at the 2021 Los Angeles Motor Show and it is only expected to hit production globally by the end of 2023.
The electric SUV will be positioned as Kia’s flagship model in its EV range and will also spawn a cousin in the Hyundai Seven Concept.
- Kia EV9 electric SUV to be shown in concept form at Auto Expo 2023
- Gets up to 77.4kWh battery pack; official range not revealed yet
- Battery can charge from 10 to 80 percent in around 20 minutes
Kia EV9 concept: design and dimensions
The Kia EV9 measures 4,929mm in length, 2,055mm in width and 1,790mm in height, which makes it nearly as large as a Range Rover. It has a wheelbase of 3,100mm, which is also the largest that can be achieved on the Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) platform – the same that underpins the Kia EV6 sold in India.
As far as design is concerned, the EV9 concept will have quite a few show car attributes. The face features a new interpretation of the signature ‘tiger nose’ grille with a blanked-out panel, sporting individual LED light modules and a Z-shaped headlamp cluster. It has a boxy and upright stance with crisp lines, flat surfaces and a large glasshouse with a sharp kink post the C-pillar. The rear features quirky, vertical LED tail lamps and a pronounced bumper.
However, the rear-hinged doors, lack of a B-pillar, headlamp cluster and flared wheel arches will likely be toned down for the production model.
Kia EV9 concept: interior and features
On the inside, the EV9 concept will have a rather minimalistic dashboard with a twin-screen infotainment layout, spoke-less flat-bottom steering wheel and an absolute lack of physical controls. Decked up with funky ambient lighting all around, the concept will feature a three-row layout where the second-row seats can be folded completely flat and the first row of seats can swivel around to create a lounge-type space.
However, these too, will likely be toned down for the production model. It will come with autonomous driving features, over-the-air software update compatibility and feature-on-demand (FOD), where owners can buy just the specific functions they want.
Kia EV9 concept: powertrain and battery
The EV9 concept will likely be previewed with a 77.4kWh battery pack, which is also the larger of the two battery packs available with the smaller EV6. Although the official range and output figures are yet to be revealed, expect more details on the same closer to the debut of the production-spec model.
The E-GMP platform also has an 800V electrical architecture, enabling rapid charging at rates of up to 350kW. A fast charge of the battery from 10 percent to 80 percent takes around 20 minutes. The EV9 is expected to be launched with a dual-motor, four-wheel-drive range-topper, as well as an entry-level variant fitted with a single motor powering the rear axle.
What else to expect from Kia at Auto Expo 2023?
Apart from the EV9, Kia will also have the EV6 on display at Auto Expo 2023. Kia is also expected to debut the second-gen Carnival in India at the event, along with a facelift for the Seltos SUV. Kia is also likely to showcase the Sorento SUV from its global line-up.
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