Kia Unveils Flagship Electric SUV 'EV9' with "50% Subsidy Effort"

30th Seoul Mobility Show Media Event
Flagship Electric SUV EV9 Real Vehicle Unveiled
Futuristic Design Enhanced with SDV Functionality

Kia has unveiled the flagship electric sports utility vehicle (SUV) EV9 for the first time in the world. The EV9 is Kia's top-tier electric SUV model that combines innovative design and advanced technology. With the launch of the EV9, Kia presented its vision to become a leading global electrification brand.

On the 30th, Kia revealed its first large electrified SUV model, the EV9, at the 2023 Seoul Mobility Show held at KINTEX in Goyang. The exhibition concept is "another step by Kia to become a sustainable mobility solution provider." At this exhibition, Kia displayed all vehicles as electric cars, including the EV9.

The front of the Kia EV9 features a digital pattern lighting grille and small cube projection LED headlamps, creating a futuristic feel. The side profile is completed with body proportions that aim for a traditional SUV. It emphasizes a strong linear impression while also conveying a smooth volume.

Applying Hyundai Motor Group’s dedicated electric vehicle platform E-GMP, the EV9 secures an open and spacious feel and excellent habitability. When the second and third rows are folded flat, the V2L (Vehicle To Load) function can be used, making it useful for leisure activities.

The interior applies a 'Panoramic Wide Display' that seamlessly connects three displays: a 12.3-inch cluster, a 5-inch climate control, and a 12.3-inch infotainment system. Additionally, Kia’s first column-type electronic shift lever with an integrated start button (SBW, Shift by Wire) was applied to help customers operate intuitively and simply during sequential vehicle use processes such as starting, driving, and parking.

Advanced driving assistance features first applied to the EV9 GT-line include Highway Driving Pilot (HDP), wireless (OTA, Over-the-air) software updates that easily keep navigation map information and various vehicle functions up to date, and the Kia Connect Store, which allows customers to add specifications anytime after purchase. These future-oriented advanced technologies were widely applied.

Kia plans to start pre-orders for the EV9 from the second quarter. Although the price range has not yet been disclosed, it is expected to be launched at a reasonable price that qualifies for 50% of the electric vehicle subsidies. Industry insiders expect the EV9’s launch price to be set between 70 million and 90 million KRW. On this day, Kia President Song Ho-sung said, "We will not receive 100% of the electric vehicle subsidies, but we are trying to receive at least 50%. We are working to ensure that as many versions as possible can receive 50%."

This year, the upper limit for electric vehicle subsidy support is 85 million KRW. Subsidies of 50% are provided for vehicles priced between 57 million KRW and 85 million KRW. Vehicles priced below 57 million KRW receive 100% support, and those exceeding 85 million KRW are not eligible for subsidies.