Kia India Confirms The Launch Of Its Flagship Electric SUV EV9 In 2024 - Everything We Know

• Kia targets 15% market share, fast-tracking EV9 alongside the new Carnival.

• Kia aims for local mass-market EV production by 2025.

• EV9 on Electric Global Modular Platform with HT Line and GT Line variants.

• EV9 GT-Line includes level 3 ADAS for enhanced highway safety.

• Carnival MPV returns in 2024, meeting stricter emission norms.

Korean automotive powerhouse Kia has officially announced that its highly anticipated three-row electric SUV, the EV9, is set to make its debut in the Indian market in 2024. This move underscores Kia's commitment to expanding the electric vehicle (EV) segment in India, with the EV9 that’s assured to be the brand's first three-row electric offering in the mass market.

Kia’s Vision for India

In an official statement, Kia outlined its strategic plans for the Indian market in the coming year. Alongside the introduction of the EV9, Kia will also launch the new generation Carnival, showcasing the brand's dedication to expanding its footprint in India. The EV9 is slated to be the second electric model from Kia, following the success of the EV6, and represents a pivotal step toward capturing a substantial market share in India's passenger EV segment.

Kia's EV9 India's EV Market

The EV9 assumes a critical role in Kia's ambition for securing a significant presence, aiming for approximately 15 percent market share in India's passenger EV segment, currently dominated by Tata Motors. The three-row electric SUV is assured to be a game-changer, blending the cutting-edge technology with spacious three-row seating, meeting the diverse needs of the Indian consumers.

Kia EV9 Speeds Up India Debut

The Kia EV9 was initially showcased in India as a concept during the Auto Expo held in January. Following its global debut, including a launch in Kia's home base, South Korea, the automaker had initially set a target of introducing the EV9 to the Indian market by 2025. However, Kia has accelerated its plans, aligning with the growing demand for electric vehicles in the country.

Expanding Electric Portfolio

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, emphasized 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."

The Kia EV9 is built on the Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), the same platform that underpins the successful EV6. Boasting of 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.

Performance and Range

Kia promises an impressive range of up to 541 kilometers 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 the performance. With an 800-volt electrical architecture, the EV9 supports ultra-fast charging, covering 239 kilometers with just 15 minutes of charging.

Safety and Technology

The top-of-the-line Kia EV9 GT-Line will feature level 3 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), enabling hands-free driving on the highways through its highway driving pilot feature. A comprehensive sensor suite, including two lidar, radar, and cameras, ensuring a full 360-degree field of view, enhancing the safety and autonomy.

Kia's Carnival MPV Returns to India in 2024

In addition to the EV9, Kia has also confirmed that the new Carnival MPV is set to re-enter the Indian market in 2024. The premium MPV, which underwent significant enhancements, is making a comeback following its discontinuation earlier this year in compliance with stricter emission norms.

As Kia continues to make strides in the Indian automotive landscape, the launch of the EV9 and the revamped Carnival MPV signals the brand's unwavering commitment to innovation, sustainability, and meeting the evolving needs of Indian consumers in the electric and premium segments.

Also Read: Kia planning to add new car in the lineup called Clavis

Verdict

Kia's 2024 launch of the EV9 in India highlights the brand's commitment to meeting the rising demand for electric vehicles. The accelerated timeline and inclusion of the Carnival MPV underscore Kia's dedication to innovation and sustainability in India's automotive future.