Cars - Kia continues its interest in electric crossovers, and after introducing the EV6, it is preparing to introduce the EV9 SUV. It has just submitted a series of photos showing the car ahead of its launch next year.
The Korean automaker showed off the three-row SUV with its Concept EV9 concept at the 2021 Automobility LA Show in Los Angeles. But it is now preparing for its first global production release in the first quarter of 2023.
The good thing is that the production version will not differ much from the trial version. There will be differences in details such as door handles and tailgates that open traditionally rather than hinged at the back. But the overall shape, square design, grille and headlights appear the same without changing.
The rear of the prototype is not visible, but given how similar the rest of the car is to the concept, the same design may continue into the production version. The test version had a camera instead of the side mirrors, but that will change in the production version. This technology can be optional in the higher grades of the car.
These images show a prototype vehicle undergoing testing at the Kia Global Research and Development Center in Namyang, Korea. The car will undergo hill-climbing and high- and low-speed driving tests on dry and slippery surfaces. In addition to the gravel road surfaces that the car will test as well.
Kia says the EV9 has also been tested in other locations around the world, and has already been tested near Germany's Nürburgring. The car could measure 4.93 mm in length, being slightly shorter than the current Kia Telluride. However, it is based on a longer wheelbase of 3.1 metres. It promised that it will reach 482 km on a full charge and can charge its battery from 10 to 80 percent in 30 minutes. Kia plans to offer the EV9 in North America, Asia and Europe, but the car will likely be made in Georgia.