L.A. Auto Show 2021: Kia Concept EV9 - Icon as the Brand's Crown Jewel

Big hit – literally: The EV9 offers an extremely spacious interior with a wheelbase of 3.1 meters on a length of 4.93 meters and is likely to become the brand's electric flagship model. Kia hasn't disclosed much about the technical data yet: The basis is the E-GMP, which, thanks to 800-volt technology, enables high charging capacities. Ioniq 5 and EV6 currently reach up to 240 kW plus – one may be curious to see how the EV9 will advance towards the current maximum possible 350-kW mark for passenger cars. In any case, the SUV should be able to charge from ten to eighty percent within 20 to 30 minutes.

Exciting idea: Part of the hood is used as a solar panel in the Concept EV9. Additionally, the roof rack can be lowered to achieve a lower air resistance, and exterior mirrors are missing due to aerodynamics.

Inside, there are three rows of seats and seven seats in total, but according to Kia, it is "transformative," meaning: Besides the "Active" mode for driving, there are two other modes. The Pause mode turns the EV9 into a lounge. In this mode, all seats can be folded so that, for example, the first and third rows can face each other. The second row of seats then becomes a table. In Enjoy mode, the seats in the third row turn backwards, and the tailgate opens – bringing you closer to nature. The missing B-pillar is intended to support the continuity between inside and outside.

Visually, Kia relies on many straight surfaces, which are said to be inspired by stones – but it could also be a coolly folded Origami-SUV. Visually, at least, the EV9 stands more alongside Land Rover Defender, Mercedes-Benz G, and Jeep Wrangler than with Sorento and the like. The wheel arches are broadly flared, and the doors open in opposite directions. There is no B-pillar. Kia refers to this as the "Bold for Nature" philosophy. This is complemented by the translucent panoramic roof, which strengthens the connection to nature. And clearly, many recycling materials dominate the interior.

The clean interior, according to Kia, is inspired by the sea: serenity, tranquility, and well-being should be experienced in the EV9. The flooring, like in so many other cars nowadays, is made from recycled fishing nets, and the seat covers are woven from plastic bottles and wool fibers – this is also now state of the art. Kia aims to be CO2 neutral by 2045. The large EV9 is expected to take Kia a big step further towards this goal.

What does this mean?

With the EV9, Kia has introduced a strong counterpart to the Hyundai Seven. Its angular design makes it a classic even before its series launch, with dimensions that are just manageable for Europe and an interior that is likely to offer a lot of space. This makes the anticipation for the series model all the greater.