The Kia EV9 is a game-changer that has challenged the status quo of the luxury car market and earned the admiration of one of the most discerning and demanding audiences in the world: German car enthusiasts.
The Kia EV9 is Kia’s first model to be built on the Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), a state-of-the-art platform that is exclusively designed for battery electric vehicles. The E-GMP offers several advantages over conventional platforms, such as a longer wheelbase, a lower center of gravity, a more spacious cabin, and a more efficient battery management system.
The EV9 is also the second model in Kia’s “EV” electric car range, following the successful launch of the EV6 earlier in 2023. The EV6 was Kia’s first electric car to feature the brand’s new design philosophy, which is inspired by nature and technology. The EV6 also set a new Guinness World Record for the longest distance traveled by an electric car on a single charge, covering 1,015 km (630 miles) across five European countries.
The Kia EV9 builds on the achievements of the EV6 and takes them to a higher level. The EV9 is a midsize crossover SUV that combines a sleek and futuristic design with a spacious and luxurious interior. It can seat up to seven passengers and offers ample cargo space. The EV9 also features a range of advanced technologies that make it more convenient, comfortable, and connected.
One of the most innovative features of the EV9 is its onboard power generator, which can supply electricity to external devices such as laptops, camping equipment, or even other electric vehicles. The EV9 can act as a mobile power station that can provide up to 3.6 kW of power output. This feature is especially useful in emergency situations or remote areas where access to electricity is limited or unavailable.
Another notable feature of the EV9 is its digital cockpit, which consists of a 12.3-inch touchscreen and a head-up display that project vital information and navigation onto the windshield. The digital cockpit also integrates with Kia’s UVO Connect system, which allows users to access various online services and functions through their smartphones or voice commands. For example, users can remotely check the battery status, pre-heat or pre-cool the cabin, or locate nearby charging stations.
The Kia EV9 also boasts a heat pump that helps preserve battery range in cold weather conditions. The heat pump recycles waste heat from the battery pack, motor, and inverter to warm up the cabin without consuming too much energy. This feature can increase the driving range by up to 20% in sub-zero temperatures.
The Kia EV9 offers two battery pack options: 58 kWh or 72.6 kWh. The rear-wheel drive and 72.6-kWh version have an estimated range of 300 miles on a single charge, according to WLTP. The EV9 also supports ultra-fast 800V DC fast charging, which can charge the battery from 10% to 80% in just 24 minutes at compatible stations. This means that users can add up to 240 miles of range in less time than it takes to watch an episode of their favorite TV show.
The EV9 delivers a powerful and responsive driving experience thanks to its all-electric motor that produces up to 379 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque. The EV9 can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 5 seconds and has a top speed of 124 mph. The EV9 also offers an optional dual-motor all-wheel-drive system that enhances traction and stability in different road conditions. The EV9 also comes with five driving modes: Eco, Normal, Sport, Snow, and Custom.
The Kia EV9 is not only a stunning vehicle but also a safe and smart one. It comes with over 20 standards of advanced collision avoidance, and driver assist features, such as auto emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, blind spot detection, and rear cross-traffic alert. The EV9 also supports over-the-air system updates that can add new features and refresh existing ones.
The EV9 is backed by Kia’s industry-leading 10-year/100,000-mile limited warranty, which also covers the battery pack. The EV9 has a starting price of around $56,000 in the US market, which is competitive compared to other luxury electric SUVs in its segment, such as the Audi e-tron, the BMW iX, and the Tesla Model X.
The EV9 is more than just a car; it is a statement of Kia’s vision for the future of mobility. It is a car that showcases Kia’s innovation, quality, and design excellence. It is a car that appeals to customers who value style, comfort, and performance. It is a car that has earned the respect and recognition of one of the most prestigious awards in the automotive industry: the German Car of the Year.
The German Car of the Year award is organized by a group of 27 automotive journalists who represent various media outlets in Germany. The award aims to honor the best cars in different categories based on criteria such as innovation, technology, design, safety, and sustainability. The award also reflects the opinions and preferences of German car buyers, who are known for their high standards and expectations.
The Kia EV9 was named the German Luxury Car of the Year 2024 by the jury, beating out rivals from Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Porsche. The jury praised the EV9 for its “outstanding design, spacious interior, high-quality materials, excellent driving performance, and innovative features.” The jury also commended the EV9 for its “competitive price, long-range, fast charging, and low environmental impact.”
The EV9 is the first Kia model to win the German Car of the Year award in any category. It is also the first electric vehicle from a non-German brand to win the Luxury Car of the Year award. The EV9’s victory is a testament to Kia’s ability to challenge the established players in the luxury car market and offer a compelling alternative that meets or exceeds the expectations of German customers.
The Kia EV9 is here to reshape the way we move. It is a car that combines elegance and efficiency, power and practicality, luxury and sustainability. It is a car that has conquered Germany and is ready to conquer the world.
