Kia EV9 showcased at Auto Expo 2023

ABU DHABI: Kia revealed its future plans at the Auto Expo by unveiling the EV9 electric SUV. With its bold and boxy silhouette, it will be the next SUV in the Korean manufacturer's global lineup. Let's have a brief look at the concept showcased. 

The EV9 has redefined the styling parameters for the other brands with its upright and boxy silhouette, which is contrary to most of the EV concepts we have seen in the past. 

Although it has been modified for an electric platform, the front design still features Kia's distinctive "Tiger Face." There isn't a grille. Instead, a body panel with integrated dynamic light patterns is provided. The S-shaped LED DRLs flank the body panel, and the front design is comprised of three horizontal chrome/aluminum strips in different spots.

The hood has a vent duct that hides behind a solar panel, which is used to recharge the battery while driving. In profile, the wheel arches are as massive and faceted as they come, and the alloys are quite distinct in appeal. Triangular elements (used to control airflow) appear to be one of the main styling inspirations, as they can be seen on the creases, side cameras (in place of mirrors), and even at various points on the inside. The vertical tail lights are built into the D-pillar, and the bumper is finished in a beefy dual-tone pattern.

The interior of the EV9 is spacious, all thanks to the great exterior proportions. With a massive panoramic sunroof, the cabin feels airy, and everything appears to be, well, floating. The dashboard hosts a 27-inch single-panel screen which is an infotainment panel as well as driver's cluster. The dashboard is crafted in two-layered, which looks different. The floating appeal is further extended by a rectangular steering wheel, headrests, and a central tunnel for the armrests.

Everything used by Kia inside the cabin is sustainable. This includes flooring made up of recycled fishnets, dash covered with vegan leather, and seat fabrics with recycled plastic bottles. 

Looking up at the powertrain configuration, the EV9 has a claimed range of up to 482 km. The advanced E-GMP architecture is capable of fast charging with a 350kW charger. This helps in charging the battery up to 80% in a time frame of 30 minutes. 

Kia EV9 was first revealed in November 2021, but it has yet to spawn a production model, which is expected in the coming months. Given the success of the EV6, we anticipate Kia bringing the production model to UAE sometime after its global debut.

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