LA Auto Show 2021: Kia EV9 Concept SUV Revealed

Having just launched the EV6 to great international acclaim, Kia has revealed its all-electric SUV concept, the Kia Concept EV9. The EV9 has been developed and optimised on the company's advanced Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP). It looks stunning and bold and of course, there's a lot of tech involved in the car. It blends a stunning exterior profile with a modern and sleek interior space that is influenced with state-of-the-art tech. The incredible aesthetics of the Concept EV9 - both inside and out - have been carefully honed from Opposites United, Kia's new design philosophy.

From the outside, the proportions help outline a three-row SUV footprint. A low gravity side body creates maximum and instant impact with the sharp crystalline inspired fender volumes that sit high up on the vehicle. This low side body profiling effect makes the fender volumes of the Concept EV9 pop out, resulting in a strong SUV stance.

The Kia EV9 gets a wheelbase of 3100mm

The Concept EV9 measures 4,930mm in length, 2,055mm width, 1,790mm height and has a wheelbase of 3,100mm. The all-electric SUV delivers driving range of up to 483 kilometres. It also features next-generation ultra-fast charging technology with a 350-kW charger that allows its advanced battery electric powertrain to replenish energy from 10 per cent to 80 per cent in 20-30 minutes.

The new Digital Tiger Face benefits from the fact that all-electric vehicles don't need the traditional grille that ICE vehicles rely upon, resulting in the Concept EV9 having a full body-coloured front that clearly conveys sustainability values.

The Kia EV9 gets retractable roof rails

The new BEV-focused grille houses an intricate 'star cloud' pattern display that is completely hidden behind the body panel of the Concept EV9 when not in use. This stylish lightshow further highlights the high-tech nature of the all-electric SUV while still paying homage to the natural world. Sequential patterns create a 'welcome light' for the driver and also appropriately position lights during driving. The star cloud pattern inspired the Kia design team to create standout vertical daytime running lamps (DRLs) for both the front and rear of the car, in-turn creating a unique signature look from start to finish.

Further enhancing aero efficiency are retractable roof rails that close inward into the roof of the Concept EV9 when not in use, creating smooth airflow over the vehicle. When needed, the roof rails can be raised with a simple touch of a button, further emphasising the all-action and all-go nature of the Concept EV9. A next-gen camera monitoring system that replaces the conventional wing mirrors further improves aerodynamic properties while also enhancing the spatial awareness of the driver.

At the rear of the Concept EV9 is a compelling yet beatifically delicate triangular D-pillar treatment that acts as a visual focal point and resonates with the SUV's angular design elements. The innovative D-pillar design also creates a unique daylight opening (DLO) signature.

Inside the all-electric SUV gets a panoramic roof and an interactive 27-inch ultra-wide display connects the Concept EV9 from the real-world to the virtual one, while serving as the nerve centre for all driver and passenger requirements, including media, climate control and comfort functionality features.