Kia’s upcoming EV9 SUV undergoes final tests

Kia has revealed details of the final intensive testing program undertaken by the Kia EV9 ahead of its world debut in 2023.

The all-electric Kia EV9 will become the brand’s flagship model and will revolutionise the large electric SUV segment, while accelerating Kia’s brand transformation. The Kia EV9 has been developed on the company’s advanced Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP).

Developed over a period of 44 months "to set new standards in design, performance, range, driving dynamics, technology and comfort," every facet of the EV9 is currently being pushed to the limits of durability at Kia’s global Namyang R&D centre in Korea.

During this final testing phase, the EV9 was relentlessly subjected to a gruelling verification program on a 4WD climbing hill and a rough terrain track, as well as a deep-water wading test, to ensure maximum reliability even in the most challenging conditions. Kia’s high-speed, handling, and low-friction tracks place every element of the EV9’s performance and roadholding under the strictest scrutiny.

At the same time, the unforgiving cobbles of the Belgian road enable Kia’s engineers to subject the EV9’s ride comfort and build quality to the harshest possible trials. In addition to the test program at Namyang R&D center, like every Kia model, the EV9 has also been subjected to a punishing testing regimen in locations all over the globe.

Kia first gave the world a preview of its newest flagship model in the form of the Kia Concept EV9, unveiled at AutoMobility LA in Los Angeles last year. Personifying ‘Opposites United,’ the brand’s groundbreaking new design language.