Kia prepares to debut its next big thing

The South Korean brand has previewed its second next-generation all-electric vehicle concept ahead of the Los Angeles motor show next week.

Dubbed the EV9, the large SUV will follow the smaller EV6, which is due to arrive locally in 2022.

Kia says it will be built on the brand’s new scalable electric platform, which it’ll share with the coming EV6 and the recently launched Ioniq 5.

This means it’s in line for multiple motors providing all-wheel drive and 800V charging technology, which allows ultra fast charging of up to 350kW or about 100km of range in five minutes.

The EV9 concept previews more conventional chunky SUV styling compared to the swoopy, sporty looks of the EV6.

The interior of Kia’s show car previews a giant screen that runs long two-thirds of the dash.

The EV9 concept is likely to be shown in production form next year where it’ll be the second electric model in Kia’s push to have seven zero-emissions vehicles by 2027.

Kia’s electric vehicles are likely to be expensive. The smaller EV6 could top $100,000.

Australian prices for the model have not been announced. But we know it costs £40,945 to £51,945 ($76,250 to $97,000) without any optional extras in the UK.

Australia is trailing other developed nations in the take-up of electric vehicles with few incentives to counteract the high price tags and a lack of infrastructure.

The Morrison government’s recent EV policy was poorly received for doing little to help make electric cars more affordable.

Investing in infrastructure helps reduce range anxiety, one of the biggest hurdles affecting electric cars.

The government hasn’t introduced an emissions reduction target, which gives car makers no incentive to bring their vehicles to Australia.

Volkswagen, which is launching some of the best and most affordable electric cars, is prioritising its vehicles for countries with emissions targets.

This means Australians aren’t likely to get these high-quality, cheaper machines for some time.

Kia also announced it will aim to stop selling petrol and diesel models in Europe by 2035 and in other major global markets by 2040.

The company also committed to being carbon neutral by 2045.

Hosung Song, head of Kia, said: “For us, it is not only about setting goals and reaching targets. It is about setting a vision that will inspire others to join the movement to benefit humanity and protect the environment.”

Kia says the single largest portion of carbon emissions generated by any mass vehicle manufacturer occurs when the vehicle is in daily use and on the road.

The maker is also investigating “green steel” as a way to help reduce the company’s emissions, as the steel industry is one of the world’s largest polluters.

Kia will also invest in “blue carbon’, which is the storage of carbon in marine ecosystems such as seaweed and mudflats.

Originally published as 2021 Kia EV9 concept to be brand’s second electric car