On the 5th (local time) 2023 New York Auto Show
Kia EV9 and Hyundai 2nd Generation Kona Unveiled
Kia to Launch EV9 in North America in Q4... Local Production in the US Starting 2024
Hyundai Motor Group unveiled the Kia EV9 and the second-generation Hyundai Kona in North America for the first time at the 2023 New York Auto Show. They introduced next-generation strategic models aimed at the North American market, where sport utility vehicles (SUVs) are highly preferred.
On the 5th (local time), Hyundai Motor Group showcased the Kia flagship electric SUV EV9 and the second-generation Hyundai small SUV Kona for the first time in the North American market at the '2023 New York International Auto Show' held at the Jacob Javits Convention Center in New York, USA.
First, the EV9 is Kia's second electrified model based on the dedicated electric vehicle platform 'E-GMP.' It is a key model that will play a major role in Kia's leap as a global electrification brand. Kia plans to launch the EV9 in the North American market in the fourth quarter of this year. Additionally, Kia will produce the EV9 at its plant in Georgia, USA, starting in 2024. The EV9 will be Kia's first dedicated electric vehicle produced in North America.
Yoon Seung-gyu, Vice President of Kia North America Division, said, "The EV9 is a model born from Kia's expertise in SUVs and EV specialization," adding, "With a high level of product quality, it is equipped with features that satisfy North American customers and will set a new standard for large electrified SUVs."
The EV9 reflects Kia's design philosophy of 'Opposites United.' Opposites United harmoniously arranges contrasting shapes. It combines a strong exterior emphasizing straight lines with a comfortable interior space emphasizing curves.
The EV9 incorporates advanced new technologies such as Highway Driving Pilot (HDP) for autonomous highway driving, the Kia Connect Store which allows customers to add features anytime after purchase, and over-the-air software updates to keep vehicle functions up to date. It is also equipped with a large-capacity 99.8kWh battery, aiming to achieve a driving range of over 500 km per charge based on domestic standards.
2023 New York Auto Show featuring Hyundai Motor Company's 2nd generation The All-New Kona Electric Vehicle [Photo by Hyundai Motor Group]
Meanwhile, Hyundai unveiled the second-generation small SUV Kona in North America for the first time on the same day and announced its full-scale launch. The second-generation Kona lineup includes electric vehicles, internal combustion engines, and high-performance N Line models, providing consumers with various options.
The second-generation Kona features a futuristic design reminiscent of electric vehicles and an upgraded spacious and smart interior. It also applies the latest advanced technologies aiming to realize a Software-Defined Vehicle (SDV) that can be continuously updated. It is the first in its class to apply over-the-air (OTA) software updates and the next-generation infotainment system with ccNC functionality.
Additionally, it comes standard with features such as Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA), Lane Keeping Assist (LKA), Intelligent Speed Limit Assist (ISLA), Driver Attention Warning (DAW), High Beam Assist (HBA), and Lane Following Assist (LFA).
Jose Munoz, Head of Hyundai North America Division, said, "The Kona electric vehicle is the next step in eco-friendly mobility solutions and a key model for Hyundai to accelerate the transition to clean mobility and implement progress for humanity."
On the 5th (local time) at the 2023 New York International Auto Show, Olavishi Boyle, Executive Vice President of Product Planning and Mobility Strategy at Hyundai Motor America, is explaining the 'The All-New Kona.' [Photo by Hyundai Motor Group]
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
