Kia Unveils First Large Electric SUV Concept Car 'The Kia Concept EV9'

First Physical Reveal at LA Auto Show... 'Digital Tiger Face' Draws Attention

[Asia Economy Reporter Yu Je-hoon] Kia announced on the 17th (local time) at the pre-press event of the '2021 LA Auto Show' held at the LA Convention Center in California, USA, that it unveiled its first large electrified SUV concept car, the 'The Kia Concept EV9.' The Concept EV9 is a concept model of the EV9, which is scheduled to be added to Kia's next-generation electric vehicle lineup following the EV6.

Based on Kia's dedicated electric vehicle platform E-GMP along with the EV6, the Concept EV9 reflects Kia's design philosophy of 'Opposites United,' featuring three interior modes that allow seat direction changes depending on driving or parking situations, colors inspired by elements of nature, and sustainable materials.

Through the Concept EV9, Kia previewed the key features of the electrified SUV to be introduced in the future. The main electrification performance targets of the Concept EV9 are ▲a maximum driving range of 300 miles (482 km) on a single charge ▲approximately 20 to 30 minutes to charge from 10% to 80% battery capacity with a 350 kW ultra-fast charger. The Concept EV9 revealed in person on this day has a length of 4,930 mm, width of 2,055 mm, height of 1,790 mm, and wheelbase of 3,100 mm.

Karim Habib, Executive Vice President of Kia Design, said, "Kia's first large electrified SUV concept car combines a zero-emission powertrain, cutting-edge exterior design, and an interior space based on modern and innovative technology," adding, "We are proud to present the Concept EV9, another important milestone in Kia's remarkable journey since early this year, to the world through the LA Motor Show."

Kia Heritage Continues with Eye-Catching 'Digital Tiger Face'

The straightforward exterior extending straight up, down, left, and right without gimmicks immediately reveals that this vehicle is a three-row SUV maximizing interior space. The vast side windows (DLO, Day Light Opening) and the panoramic sky roof offer passengers a spectacular view at every moment inside the vehicle.

Kia has inherited and developed its design heritage 'Tiger Nose,' established through internal combustion engine models, into a 'Digital Tiger Face' suitable for electrified models. The front Tiger Face of the Concept EV9 consists of body-colored panels replacing the grille of internal combustion vehicles and the 'Star Map Signature Lighting.'

The Star Map Signature Lighting applies a star cloud pattern that gradually spreads inward from both ends of the panel, creating a visual effect that makes the body appear wider. When off, it blends into the body and is not noticeable, but when the vehicle starts, it lights up, and as a welcome light, the lamps in each row light up sequentially, emphasizing the high-tech image of the Concept EV9.

Additionally, Kia placed air vents at the top of the Tiger Face that send air hitting the front during driving to the hood to reduce resistance. The hood also features solar panels that can charge the vehicle's battery using sunlight, showcasing innovative elements reflecting bold harmony with nature.

Three Seat Modes Enhance Convenience

The interior of the Concept EV9 is designed like an open lounge under the keywords 'Opened, Floating, Pure.' The front features a crash pad shaped like the letter 'O.' Furthermore, the O-shaped structure is repeated in elements optimized for their functions, such as the front display, steering wheel, center console, and door trim garnish, inspiring passengers.

In particular, Kia equipped a 27-inch ultra-wide display for both the driver and front passenger seats in the Concept EV9. The ultra-wide display reveals the potential for electrified vehicles with advanced autonomous driving technology to offer expanded experiences beyond mere 'mobility.'

The Concept EV9 also features three interior modes that allow changing seat directions depending on driving or parking situations. Active Mode is the conventional seat arrangement for driving, with all seats in rows 1 to 3 facing forward. Pause Mode keeps the third row as is, rotates the first row 180 degrees to face backward and pulls it forward as much as possible, and folds the second-row seats to use as a table. Enjoy Mode rotates the third row 180 degrees and opens the tailgate, allowing passengers to sit in the third row and relax while looking outside the vehicle.

Meanwhile, Kia plans to set up an exhibition space of approximately 1,867 square meters at the LA Auto Show starting on the 19th (local time), displaying four new vehicles including the Concept EV9, EV6, Sportage, and Sportage Hybrid. Additionally, with a total of 21 exhibits including the Stinger, K5, Forte (K3), Carnival, Telluride, Sorento, Soul, Niro electric and hybrid vehicles, Sorento hybrid and plug-in hybrid, and E-GMP, Kia intends to actively promote its product competitiveness in the North American market.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.