It was mid-November 2021 when Kia signaled its intentions towards coming out with an electric SUV bigger than the EV6. The Concept EV9 arrived at the Los Angeles Auto Show as a three-row family hauler with a boxy shape and a sharp exterior design. Fast forward to today, the company’s UK division has announced a production version will follow next year. Kia only confirms European availability, but we’re expecting the zero-emissions vehicle to be sold in other regions as well shortly thereafter.
As a refresher, the EV was imposingly large, stretching at 4,930 millimeters (194 inches) long, 2,055 mm (81 in) wide, and 1,790 mm (70 in) tall, with an extended wheelbase measuring 3,100 mm (122 in). Sadly, the new press release issued this week doesn’t contain any additional information about what will be a sister model of the Hyundai Ioniq 7. Later, a more upscale equivalent from Genesis should hit the market.
We will remind you Kia mentioned the Concept EV9 had an unspecified battery pack to cover 300 miles (483 kilometers) between charges. The electric showcar from LA was touted as having support for a maximum charging power of 350 kW. Consequently, the South Korean brand said juicing up the battery from 10 to 80 percent could be achieved in as little as half an hour or even less.
The concept’s exterior is unlikely to change too much on the road to production, but the fancy cabinis unlikely to be this high-tech for the road-going model. The Concept EV9 had a giant 27-inch screen along with a lounge-like configuration by changing the seat layout. The second row transformed into a table while the driver and front passenger were able to face the third-row occupants thanks to swiveling front seats.
Chances are the EV9 will arrive in the United States for the 2024 model year and we’d wager it’s going to set you back approximately $50,000. That seems like an educated guess considering the EV6 begins at $40,900 MSRP before any applicable EV-related incentives.
Source: Kia
