Kia's electric SUV, the EV9, features a comprehensive upgrade in both powertrain and software, enabling L3-level autonomous driving.

Gai Shi Auto News, March 29, 2023 – Kia officially unveiled its all-electric flagship SUV, the EV9. As Kia’s first electric model featuring a three-row seating layout, the EV9 not only boasts a comprehensively upgraded powertrain to match its rugged exterior design but also comes equipped with Level 3 autonomous driving capabilities and over-the-air software updates. Serving as the flagship model in Kia’s lineup, the EV9 is set to help elevate the brand’s image. Kia Motors CEO Song Ho-sung stated: “The EV9 is our brand’s new flagship. It will play a pivotal role in shaping Kia’s future brand identity.”

It is reported that the newly launched EV9 comes in two models—Standard Range and Long Range—each paired with either all-wheel drive or rear-wheel drive systems. According to data from the Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Procedure (WHLTP), the rear-wheel-drive Long Range version of the EV9 will achieve a range of up to 541 kilometers. Kia added that, when using its dedicated 800-volt charging system, the Long Range EV9 can gain an impressive 239-kilometer range after just 15 minutes of charging. Kia also noted that the rear-wheel-drive Standard Range EV9 is equipped with a 76.1 kWh battery pack, while both the rear-wheel-drive Long Range model and the all-wheel-drive versions of the EV9 feature a larger 99.8 kWh battery pack.
Data shows that the rear-wheel-drive, long-range model is equipped with a 150kW electric motor, achieving 0-100 km/h acceleration in just 9.4 seconds. The standard rear-wheel-drive version features an even more powerful 160 kW single motor, enabling it to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in only 8.2 seconds. Meanwhile, the all-wheel-drive variant fitted with dual motors delivers a combined power output of up to 283 kW, allowing this SUV to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in a remarkable 6.0 seconds. Moreover, users can opt for an optional Boost function to unlock even higher performance levels, reducing the 0-100 km/h time down to an impressive 5.3 seconds. EV9’s exceptional range is also attributed to its outstanding aerodynamic design. For the first time, the EV9 incorporates a uniquely shaped 3D-carved underbody shield—with a convex front and concave rear—alongside aerodynamic wheels and innovative air intakes integrated into the front bumper. These thoughtfully designed elements work together seamlessly to give the EV9 an astonishingly low drag coefficient of 0.28, significantly enhancing its energy efficiency and overall driving performance.
In terms of its powertrain, Kia Motors states that the EV9 electric SUV available in the U.S. market can generate up to 5,000 pounds of towing capacity. By comparison, Ford’s F-150 Lightning electric pickup boasts a towing capability ranging from 7,700 to 10,000 pounds. This suggests that the EV9 is better suited for young urban users rather than those engaged in heavy-duty hauling tasks. Beyond its high-performance hardware, Kia also highlights that the EV9 comes equipped with an advanced smart connectivity system. Through Kia’s newly launched Kia Connect Store app store, users can conveniently perform over-the-air software updates for their vehicle anytime and anywhere. Additionally, they can seamlessly purchase tailored digital features and services on demand, such as Remote Smart Parking Assist 2.0, Boost functionality, and even the innovative "Digital Pattern Lighting Grille" feature.
Kia Senior Product Manager Sang Lee stated: "Following the launch of the EV9, we will also roll out more advanced features through the app store. Users will even have the flexibility to upgrade their vehicles themselves via the app store at the time of purchase, allowing for greater personalization. Additionally, the EV9 has achieved Level 3 autonomous driving, marking a significant step forward for Kia toward full self-driving capabilities. For instance, the EV9 GT-line model will come equipped with the Highway Driving Pilot (HDP) system, enabling conditional Level 3 autonomous driving in select regions. The vehicle is fitted with 15 sensors— including two LiDAR units—enabling it to scan and detect objects within a comprehensive 360-degree field of view. This advanced technology empowers the car to identify road conditions and other road users, responding proactively to prevent potential collisions. Not only does this feature free drivers' hands, but it also ensures the vehicle stays centered on its lane while maintaining a safe distance from the vehicle ahead. As Sang Lee noted, 'Compared to human eyes, the autonomous driving system is far better at spotting potential hazards ahead. This makes your daily commutes and adventurous journeys smoother and more confident.'" However, Kia has not yet disclosed in which markets this groundbreaking feature will be available.
It is reported that the Kia EV9 will begin pre-sales in the South Korean market starting from the second quarter of 2023, with plans to launch in select international markets such as Europe and North America in the second half of the year. Currently, Kia has not yet announced the pricing for the new vehicle. (This article is sourced from Gasgoo.com.)

Translated from Sina Auto

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