Electronic vehicles (EVs) are already a thing of the past and will continue to be in the future. In fact, the EV market in the Middle East was USD40.25 million in 2021 and is expected to reach USD93.10 million by 2027. Locally, Dubai remains focused on its long-term ambitions as it works. Enabling residents to make more sustainable choices. Automobile companies like Kia share Dubai’s vision globally, and are taking steps to do their part to help us all. That mission is brought to life by Kia’s Concept EV9, an all-electric SUV concept model featuring progressive design, cutting-edge tech, and an all-electric powertrain.
As Kia works toward a vision for an all-electric lineup worldwide by 2040, the company is set to bring 11 electric cars to market by 2026. And how can they advance the green cars of the future?
Durable exterior and interior design
The use of recycled materials in cars has come a long way in recent years as the next step in Kia’s pursuit of carbon neutrality. The next and most important step is to get such content into as many production models as possible. The Concept EV9 hints at what’s possible.
The model is designed in such a way that its internal and external manufacturing materials are environmentally balanced. The floor of the car is made from recycled fishnet, while the seat fabric is made from a mix of wool and recycled plastic bottles. Meanwhile, the cabin features vegan leather throughout. Such is the significance of the progress made in the Concept EV9, Kia plans to gradually reduce the use of animal leather in all its vehicles.
Ultra-fast charging makes EVs easy.
According to the World Economic Forum, consumers are hesitant to opt for electric vehicles for a number of reasons, one of which is “range anxiety.” This form of anxiety is related to the worry of low charging infrastructure or the fear of running out of battery before reaching one’s destination. In fact, whether batteries can ever be as fast as pumping gas into a car has been a topic of debate online.
However, in 2022, automobile companies like Kia are increasingly incorporating ultra-fast charging technology into their EVs to improve their convenience, ultimately encouraging the move to sustainable mobility. For example, Kia’s own concept EV9 relies on next-generation ultra-fast charging technology for peak performance. With its 350-kW charger, the battery-electric powertrain is capable of charging from 10 percent to 80 percent in about 20 to 30 minutes, and thus can drive for about 300 miles.
Therefore, the adoption of this technology has eliminated range anxiety and other common problems or misconceptions associated with EVs that would normally discourage sustainable mobility.
Digital ‘tiger’ face — with solar panel
The traditional tiger-face grille adorning Kia vehicles is now a familiar part of the brand’s design signature, and Kia’s Concept EV9 takes it a step further.
Automobile manufacturers today are exploring the potential of solar energy through curved solar roof systems. Kia’s concept EV9 already features this form of energy in its grille. Narrowing down the hood vent duct area, the Concept EV9’s solar grill puts electrical energy back on the road. This feature provides the model with an alternate source of energy when not near a charging station, reducing overall usage.
With growing social awareness of sustainable living, rising public expectations on the automobile sector, and ambitious government targets, car manufacturers are ramping up their green efforts. Kia’s innovative concept EV9 provides a glimpse into the future of how today’s revolutionary sustainability-focused technologies and features could become the norm.