Kia does not have much to say about the underlying technology of the Concept EV9, so the accompanying press release is full of flowery prose about the design. The Kia EV9 “has a design inspired by the simplicity and perfection of nature, and how it contrasts and works together in perfect harmony. In this regard, the Concept EV9 was further inspired by Opposites United’s ‘Water Element’, with a focus on features related to serenity, calmness and well-being. For example, the body color mimics the vast depths of the ocean, which is then offset by the calming and clear blue sky that radiates throughout the interior.” Just so you know…
Kia EV9 has some classic SUV design traits
But now without fuss: the Kia EV9 has some classic SUV design traits. Its proportions are reminiscent of classic off-road vehicles from the 1960s and 1970s, such as the International Scout and the Ford Bronco. The large glass area of the cabin provides an overview. Or, as Kia puts it with great sense of drama: “The sleek glass structure provides a direct connection to the outside environment, whether it’s the rays of the sun coming in, the quiet sound of rain on a weekend ride in the fall or the calming feeling of moonlight and stars on a cloudless evening.” And Kia’s sought-after nature narrative naturally includes an interior with recycled materials, such as plastic bottles and old fishing nets.
Charging at an unbelievable speed of 350 kW
The EV9 is a big car: 4.9 meters long, 2.0 meters wide and 1.8 meters high. Kia says nothing about the electric powertrain yet. We only know that it has an electric range of up to 483 kilometers and can be charged ultra-fast. The Kia EV6 is already a star in this, with its 240 kW charging capacity. But the EV9 takes a big step over that with 350 kW. According to Kia, the SUV’s battery can be charged from 10 to 80 percent in 20 to 30 minutes. A typical concept car joke is the use of various modes in the interior of the EV9. You have Active Mode (for when the car is moving), Pause Mode (which transforms the cabin into a kind of lounge) and Enjoy Mode (where the three rows of seats are rotated towards the open tailgate so that the occupants can enjoy nature).