KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Kia EV9 is a 3-row electric SUV
- Sits above the currently selling Kia EV6
- Available with RWD, AWD, multiple range options
After introducing the EV6 electric car in India, Kia is ready to take its EV portfolio up a notch. And the electric SUV, EV9 is all set to make its way here in India in 2024. While the concept was showcased at the Auto Expo 2023, it already made its debut 2 months later in March 2023 internationally.
Let's look at what are the details of this massive EV SUV.
Kia EV9 SUV- A Part Of Kia 2.0 Strategy For EVs
Kia's EV9, the highly anticipated all-electric SUV, is coming to India in the upcoming year. This makes it Kia's second electric vehicle offering in the country, after EV6. Taejin Park, CEO of Kia India, said -"Next year, we also want to bring the EV9, which is really high in the EV product range." Kia wants to have a top-down strategy with its electric vehicles in India with the new EV9 and EV6 sitting at the premium end of the EV market, while an all-new made-in-India mass market EV will be hitting showrooms only by 2025.
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Kia India has revealed its "Kia 2.0" transformation strategy, aiming to achieve a remarkable 10% market share in the Indian market in the coming years. As part of this strategy, Kia plans to introduce a range of new models, including the highly anticipated EV9 SUV, while doubling its touchpoints to approximately 600.
Kia EV9 Global Version
The EV9 marks Kia's entry into the realm of high-end and spacious electric SUVs on a global scale. It holds the distinction of being the largest and most expensive electric SUV in Kia's lineup. Notably, the EV9 is the first Kia vehicle entirely designed under the creative direction of renowned ex-BMW stylist, Karim Habib.
Boasting a distinctive two-box design, the EV9 exudes a commanding presence as a true upright SUV. It displays bold styling cues that are gradually making their way onto other Kia models, further accentuating its unique appeal. With a three-row cabin configuration, the EV9 offers versatility and flexibility, providing multiple seating layouts to cater to various customer preferences and requirements.
What's Under The Hood
Internationally, the EV9 offers three powertrain options. The range begins with the EV9 RWD variant, equipped with a 76.1kWh battery. Following that is the EV9 RWD long-range version, featuring a larger 99.8kWh battery for more range. The top-spec EV9 AWD model boasts two electric motors, delivering enhanced performance and all-wheel drive capability. Meanwhile, Kia has not disclosed the official range figure for the top-spec EV9.
Verdict
With a more focused approach towards the Indian EV market, the South Korean manufacturer could pose a significant challenge to the EVs in the market, just like it did with the Kia Seltos. With a 3-row, butch SUV like the EV9, it could shift the perspective of the buyers on how an EV can look like. Also, you must join our Whatsapp Group Community of petrolheads to find out more exciting stuff about the Auto world.
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