Until now, we’ve only seen the Kia EV9 testing once, and it was wearing big, chunky camouflage that hid the majority of the bodywork. Now, though, it has exchanged that bulky outfit for something a little body-hugging.
Seen here in new dazzle camouflage, the body lines and design features are more visible than ever, though there are still some sections that appear to have had lumps added to keep us from seeing too much.
All the same, the boxy design from the EV9 Concept, which was unveiled in November 2021 at the LA Auto Show, remains on this test vehicle, seen driving around the Nürburgring. This does appear to still be relatively early in development, though, since its front seats are labeled Recaro and a roll cage can be seen inside.
Read Also: 2024 Kia EV9 Three-Row Flagship Electric SUV Spied On Public Roads
Although the overall shape of the SUV is pretty faithful to the concept, there are differences. The rear doors, for example, appear to open the traditional way, rather than being suicide doors. Some of the creases on the body look slightly less extreme than those shown on that demonstrator, too.
The Kia EV9 will be a three-row SUV that is primarily intended to capture the eye of American customers. The automaker may even build the electric vehicle in the country, at a plant that could be located in Georgia. The model will, however, also be offered to customers in Europe.
According to Kia, the concept version was “capable” of going up to 300 miles (482 km) on a charge and would feature “next-generation ultra-fast charging technology” that allows to go from 10 to 80 percent charge in under 30 minutes.
The concept car measured 4,930 mm (194 in) in length, 2,055 mm (81 in) width, 1,790 mm (70 in) height and has a wheelbase of 3,100 mm (122 in), making it a little shorter than the Kia Telluride, though the wheelbase was a little longer than that vehicle and a little wider, too.
Kia has confirmed that it will start selling the EV9 in 2023 around the world, including in North America, Europe, and Asia.
