Kia explained that EV9, a large sports utility vehicle (SUV), is a vehicle that will completely change the concept and method of movement with large-capacity batteries, long driving distances based on power efficiency specifications, body design optimized for electric vehicles, advanced driver assistance systems, and software wireless updates (OTA).
The 2WD (rear wheel drive) model exerts a maximum torque of 350Nm with a maximum output of 150kW, and the 4WD (four-wheel drive) model exerts a maximum torque of 600Nm with a maximum output of 283kW. The 4WD model increases the maximum torque to 700Nm when the “boost” option is added, reaching 100km/h in 5.3 seconds from rest.
Based on Kia’s own measurements, the specifications of EV9 are 5,10mm in full length, 1,980mm in width, 1,755mm in full height, and 3,100mm in wheelbase (inter-axis distance). The GT-line is slightly larger at 5,15mm in full length and 1,780mm in full height.
Kia President Song Ho-sung said, “We have been working hard to launch a new brand in 2021 and develop services and solutions that will add meaning to our relationships with customers along with products that inspire customers. We will lead the future electric era through EV9, which we have prepared for a long time based on Kia’s legacy as a pioneer in the SUV market.”
Starting with EV92WD·4WD, Kia will launch four line-ups, including GT-line models and high-performance GT models. When the government certification process for 2WD·4WD is completed in the second quarter, it will disclose the distance and detailed specifications for each trim determined by the domestic standard, and proceed with pre-contracts for domestic customers.
Several functions have also been applied to increase safety by controlling the vehicle body with software.
Dynamic torque vectoring (eDTVC) helps stable turning by distributing appropriate torque to each wheel when the vehicle turns. If strong winds blow from the side while driving at high speed, it will be provided with horizontal wind stability control to prevent the vehicle from being pushed by controlling steering torque and auto-terrain modes that reflect road surface conditions such as snow, mud, and sand.
It also embodies the software-oriented automobile (SDV) transition goal declared by Hyundai Motor Group.
From the GT-line model, it will be equipped with a Level 3 Highway Driving Pilot (HDP). Level 2 autonomous driving, which is currently commercially available, requires the driver to intervene by putting his or her hand on the steering wheel even while using the function, but at Level 3, the vehicle drives at a maximum speed of 80 kilometers per hour without warning sound even when his or her hand is removed.
The HDP adjusts itself according to the situation in the section or curved road where the speed limit changes. It determines vehicles ahead and interjects to maintain a safe distance and secure driving stability.
Just like installing a new smartphone application, it will also operate a Kia Connect store where customers can apply the functions they want for the necessary period after purchasing a vehicle.
Products from the Kia Connect Store dedicated to EV9 include ▲ Remote Smart Parking Assistance 2 that supports remote parking, parking, and parking assistance ▲ Digital Pattern Lighting Grill at the front that can be changed according to preference ▲ Streaming Plus that allows you to enjoy video and sound source content in your vehicle. Features will continue to be added.
Wireless software updates, one of SDV’s core technologies, are applied to various areas such as navigation map information as well as vehicle control to keep vehicle functions up to date.
It has also increased the use of eco-friendly materials with sustainability in mind, such as replacing animal leather materials with bio-polyurethane and adding plant-based materials to reduce the use of chemicals.
Although the driving distance for a single charge has not yet been determined, the goal is to achieve more than 500 kilometers because the battery is large at 99.8 kWh. Kia predicted that it seems easy to achieve the goal as technologies to reduce air resistance such as 3D undercover, aerodynamic wheels, and front bumper air curtains are also mobilized.
It is also equipped with functions to efficiently operate power, including a 400V and 800V multi-ultra-fast charging system that can charge 10% to 80% of the battery capacity in 25 minutes with a 350kW charger, battery conditioning that optimizes charging speed by controlling battery temperature at the time of arrival at the charging station, and a rear seat independent air conditioning system that reduces power consumption through independent control of cooling and heating.