Kia EV9 all-electric SUV enters final testing phase

Kia is bound to add another electric vehicle (EV) to its lineup as the EV9 all-electric SUV just entered its final intensive testing program.

Kia EV9 in a camouflage

The name Kia EV9 first arose when the Korean automaker unveiled its concept. It has a boxy exterior that is integrated with futuristic-styling details, tapping into the future of EVs. However, the production EV9 is still hiding under a camouflage so we can’t determine how close it is to the concept.

Looking at the cloaked Kia EV9 test unit, the all-electric SUV has vertical headlamps on each end of the grille-less front fascia. It gets a fair share of black and chrome accents to give the vehicle more style. The wheels aren’t the same as the ones in the concept but we still have to see once the final production model comes out.

Kia EV9 Concept

No interior and powertrain details have been hinted at. But based on the concept, the automaker is trying to develop the EV9 to offer a maximum range of 540 km and a zero to 100 km/h acceleration of around five seconds. Currently, it is undergoing tests such as 4WD hill climbing, deep-water wading test, and test runs on rough roads at Namyang R&D center in South Korea.

The 7-seater all-electric SUV will be joining the EV6 as the models that are underpinned by the company’s Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP). One can expect an innovative-looking design similar to its compact crossover sibling, which helped Hyundai Motor Group Chief Creative Officer Luc Donckerwolke win the 2022 World Car Person of the Year.

Last steps before the all-electric SUV's big day

Kia will launch the EV9 in the first quarter of next year. It is slated to become the brand’s newest flagship model. By 2027, the company is looking to roll out a total of 14 new battery electric vehicles (BEVs), as part of its initiatives to grow sustainability within its business.

See more upcoming cars at Philkotse.com.