The first full images have been revealed by Kia of the EV9, its first three-row electric SUV, which features sleek, sculptural shapes and assertive geometry to deliver a bold design aesthetic.
Kia drew on its Opposites United design philosophy and Technology for Life pillar, which aim to ensure that the technology and innovation “promote positive, intuitive interactions between humans and machines”. These values played a key role in the design of the EV9’s interior, with designers working to prioritize space, comfort and technology.
Built on the OEM’s Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), the EV9’s long wheelbase and completely flat electric vehicle architecture enables the SUV to benefit from a spacious cabin, fostering connections between occupants while enabling them to relax in “lounge-style comfort” in all three seating rows. The Kia EV9 can be optioned as both a six or a seven seater.
Occupants in both the first and second-row can recline their seats at the same time to rest when the EV9 is charging. Additionally, the seats in the second row can be swiveled 180°. The third-row seats benefit from cup holders and charging points.
Designed to be user friendly, the EV9 features an open, floating panoramic dashboard which extends from the steering wheel to the center of the vehicle. Providing a digital experience are two 12.3in touchscreens integrated with one 5in segment display. These enable the driver and passengers to control various functions. The EV9’s extended display high-definition audio visual, navigation and telematics (AVNT) screen delivers an immersive experience and enables a connection to the digital world.
Below the AVNT screen are hidden touch-type buttons to enable start/stop functions in addition to further AVNT and heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) controls.
“The Kia EV9 breaks new ground, aiming to redefine standards for design, connectivity, usability and environmental responsibility,” said Karim Habib, executive vice president and head of Kia Global Design Center. “The Kia EV9 offers customers an exceptionally high-quality proposition and a fresh EV perspective in the family SUV sector. This new vehicle typology provides instinctive experiences and excellent comfort for not just the driver, but all occupants, through innovative use of space, technology and design.”