South Korean automotive giant Kia has officially announced its plans to introduce the highly anticipated three-row electric SUV, the EV9, to the Indian market in 2024.
As per HT Auto, Kia outlined its ambitious plans for the Indian market in the coming year. Alongside the debut of the EV9, Kia will also be launching the new generation Carnival.
The EV9 is set to become the second electric model from Kia, following the success of the EV6 and represents a significant step towards capturing a substantial market share in India’s passenger EV segment.
The EV9 plays a crucial role in Kia’s aspiration to secure a significant presence in India, with the company aiming for approximately 15% market share in the passenger EV segment, currently dominated by Tata Motors.
The three-row electric SUV is expected to be a game-changer, seamlessly combining cutting-edge technology with spacious three-row seating to meet the diverse needs of Indian consumers.
Initially showcased in India as a concept during the Auto Expo held in January, the Kia EV9 has undergone global debuts, including a launch in its home base, South Korea. While the automaker had initially set a target of introducing the EV9 to the Indian market by 2025, Kia has accelerated its plans in response to the growing demand for electric vehicles in the country.
Having successfully launched the EV6 in India last year, Kia is on a trajectory to strengthen its position in the electric vehicle segment. Tae-Jin Park, Managing Director and CEO at Kia India expressed the brand’s commitment, stating, “In 2025, we would initiate local production of a mass segment EV, and then every year, we will keep introducing electric models,” reports HT Auto.
The Kia EV9 is built on the Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), the same platform that underpins the successful EV6. With a length exceeding five meters, the EV9 offers configurations for six or seven seats and will be available in two variants – HT Line and GT Line.
Kia promises an impressive range of up to 541 kilometres on a single charge, thanks to the 150 kW electric motor. The EV can accelerate from 0 to 100 kmph in just 9.4 seconds.
Additionally, the RWD version, equipped with a more powerful 160 kW electric motor, enhances performance. With an 800-volt electrical architecture, the EV9 supports ultra-fast charging, covering 239 kilometres with just 15 minutes of charging.
The top-of-the-line Kia EV9 GT-Line will feature level 3 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), enabling hands-free driving on highways through its highway driving pilot feature. A comprehensive sensor suite, including two lidar, radar and cameras, ensures a full 360-degree field of view, enhancing safety and autonomy.
In addition to the EV9, Kia has confirmed that the new Carnival MPV is set to re-enter the Indian market in 2024. The upgraded premium MPV is set to return to the market after undergoing substantial enhancements. Its reintroduction follows a temporary discontinuation earlier this year to align with more stringent emission standards.
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