South Korean automaker Kia achieved a significant milestone for its newly released model, Kia EV9, according to the press release. The all-electric SUV has just won in the Luxury category of the German Car of the Year 2024 awards.
“We are very proud that the EV9 was named ‘German Luxury Car of the Year’ even before it is launched, as it is a strong signal that the Kia brand and its electrification strategy are recognized and awarded by German industry experts.”
Won-Jeong Jeong, Kia Europe President
German Car of the Year 2024 awards
The 2024 GCOTY signifies the competition’s sixth edition already. It included 48 new vehicle models, which had undergone critical tests and assessments by a panel of 27 trade journalists.
It had five different categories, including the following:
- Compact
- Premium
- Luxury
- New Energy
- Performance
Focusing on the Luxury category, it qualifies all models that start at 70,000 Euro. As mentioned, the Kia EV9 dominated the rankings against eight competitors.
About the Kia EV9
The Kia EV9 is the brand’s second offering under the dedicated BEV portfolio after the popular EV6.
Kia has started accepting European orders for the Kia EV9 since July, with plans to begin deliveries in late 2023.
The EV9 also uses the company’s Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP). It has a 99.8 kWh battery pack that adds a maximum driving range of 239 km between 15-minute charges. It also offers an 800v ultra-fast charging tech.
Its RWD variant has a 150 kW electric motor with a WLTP-estimated range of 541km. Meanwhile, its AWD variant has two 141kW electric motors. It has a WLTP range of 497km. Its GT-line model boasts an acceleration of 0-100 km/h in just 5.3 seconds, with a 200 km/h top speed.
Below are the Kia EV9’s standard interior design and comfort features, as indicated by the Kia UK website:
- All-Round Electric Windows with Front & Rear Auto Up and Down Functions
- Automatic Defog System
- Three Zone Climate Control
- Rotating Roof Vents (2nd & 3rd Row)
- E-Shift Column Gear Selector with Engine Start/Stop Button with Smart Entry System
- Electric Parking Brake (EPB) with Autohold Function
- Artificial Leather Seats
- Front Seat Headrest Up/Down & Sliding Adjustment
- Front Passenger & Driver Electric Lumbar Support
- Heated and Ventilated Front & 2nd Row Seats
- 7 Seats (2nd Row with 3 Seats)
- 2nd Row Sliding Seat with Reclining Function (Auto Folding)
- Electronic Rear View Mirror with Full Display
- 2nd Row Manual Window Blinds
- 4-Spoke Artificial Leather Steering Wheel with Illuminated Emblem
- Steering Wheel Mounted Countrols
- Heated Steering Wheel
- Sunvisors with Vanity Mirror LED Illumination (Driver & Front Passenger)
- Cloth Centre Console with Open Storage Compartment and Armrest
- Regenerative Braking Paddle Shifters
- Metal Painted Interior Door Handles
- Deluxe Door Scuff Plates
- Smart Power Tailgate (Height Adjustable)
“As Kia’s new flagship, the EV9 plays a pivotal role in transforming our brand into a leading EV provider. With its extraordinarily variable and spacious interior, striking design, and ultra-fast charging technology, it sets new standards in the SUV segment.”
Won-Jeong Jeong, Kia Europe President
See Also:
- Kia partners with Wallbox to offer bidirectional charging tech for EV9 owners
- Kia officially delivers its new flagship EV9 electric SUV
- Kia releases teaser video of the upcoming EV9 indicating its reveal date
- Kia’s new EV4 SUV caught in spy photos for the first time
- Kia announces plans to expand its Georgia factory with another $200 million investment
Kia indeed has a strong reputation in electric vehicle technology. Its EV6 has already received multiple awards and recognitions from various organizations across the world. That said, the EV9’s lead in the German Car of the Year 2024 Awards’ Luxury category is unsurprising.
