Kia has condensed all its vehicle development know-how to create the EV9, which is now undergoing the final suite of tests, ahead of its launch in the first quarter of 2023. Based on the OEM’s Electric-Global Modular Platform, it has been engineered over a period of 44 months and pushes the limits of current technology, according to Kia. For the final leg of testing, engineers are homing in on durability at Kia’s Namyang R&D facility in Korea.
Final testing has involved driving the EV9 with 4WD up hills and on rough terrain tracks, and deep-water wading. The company’s high-speed, handling and low-friction tracks are said to place every element of vehicle performance and roadholding under the strictest scrutiny. Meanwhile, the car’s ride, comfort and build quality are being assessed on the Belgian pave. In addition to the testing conducted at the Namyang R&D center, the EV9 has also been subjected to a grueling test regime in all corners of the world.
The all-electric car is set to become Kia’s halo model.
