Kia teases with EV9 glimpses ahead of official launch

Kia Motors has teased its Indian audience with earlier glimpses of its upcoming EV9 electric SUV. The teaser comes ahead of the vehicle's official launch on Oct. 3. The company is reported to import a completely built-up (CBU) vehicle and offer it as its flagship product.

Kia Motors debuted its all-new EV9 concept at the Auto Expo, which was unveiled after a few months on a global level. The vehicle is based on the E-GMP skateboard electric platform and measures 5,010mm in length with a 3,100m wheelbase. Moreover, the EV9 can accommodate 6-7 people.

In the overseas market, the Kia EV9 comes in two batteries including a 76.1kWh unit and a larger 99.8kWh unit. The variant with the rear-wheel drive and a single motor provides an EPA-estimated range of 370-489km. Meanwhile, the version with the all-wheel-drive and dual electric motors comes with a range of 435-451km on a single charge.

Depending on the variant, the version with single-motor can produce 201hp or 215hp, and apeak torque of 350Nm. Meanwhile, the AWD version produces 379hp and a torque up to 700Nm. The vehicle can accelerate from 0-100kph in just 5.3 seconds before reaching its maximum speed of  200kmph. However, it is still not confirmed whether the company will launch both the RWD and AWD versions in India

The EV9, which will be positioned above Kia's current flagship model, the EV6, will be imported directly into India. It will compete with high-end electric SUVs like the Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV, BMW iX1, and Audi Q8 e-tron since its estimated price tag exceeds Rs 1 crore (ex-showroom). On October 3, Kia will also introduce the next-generation Carnival in India together with the EV9.