In a historic turn of events, the Kia EV9 Air has clinched the prestigious Drive Car of the Year award for 2024, marking the first-ever victory for an electric vehicle in the esteemed 18-year history of the program. This milestone is not just a triumph for Kia, but it also signifies a paradigm shift in the landscape of Australian family motoring.
The year 2024 stands out as a watershed moment, firmly establishing electrification as a focal point for prospective car buyers. Among the 18 finalists contending for the coveted title, a staggering 12 incorporate some form of electric power in their lineup. What’s more telling is that each of the six finalists for the overall award boasts electrification, underlining the profound impact of this technology on the automotive industry.
Modern families are increasingly seeking functionality, technology, and cost-effectiveness in their vehicles. The Kia EV9 Air embodies this ethos flawlessly, combining the practicality of a seven-seat SUV with cutting-edge electrification. While not every household may currently be ready to embrace electric vehicles, the EV9 serves as a beacon illuminating the path towards the future of family motoring in Australia.
As the first fully-electric seven-seat SUV, the EV9 Air represents a departure from the status quo, showcasing the possibilities afforded by electric propulsion. Equipped with a 76kWh battery delivering 160kW/350Nm output and an impressive range of up to 443km, this vehicle exemplifies Kia’s commitment to innovation and sustainability. Moreover, its utilization of the class-leading E-GMP electric platform enables rapid charging, with the capability to replenish from 10-80 percent in approximately 20 minutes on a 350kW charger.
Beyond its electrification prowess, the EV9 Air boasts an array of family-friendly features and safety technologies. From Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) functionality for powering external devices to advanced driver assistance systems such as autonomous emergency braking and curtain airbags across all three rows, this vehicle prioritizes the well-being and convenience of its occupants.
Inside the cabin, occupants are treated to a blend of comfort and connectivity, with heated and ventilated seats for the driver and front passenger, six USB ports for device charging, and an impressive 13 cup holders catering to every family member’s needs. Such thoughtful design elements underscore the EV9 Air’s suitability for modern family life, making it a standout choice in the evolving automotive landscape.
While the transition to electric vehicles may not be immediate for every buyer, the Kia EV9 Air beckons attention as a harbinger of what’s to come. By seamlessly integrating electrification with family-friendly functionality, this vehicle obliterates the notion of compromise, setting a new standard for Australian family cars.
In many ways, the EV9 Air not only propels the automotive industry forward but also shapes the trajectory of future family motoring. Its arrival heralds a new era of sustainable, technologically advanced vehicles, making it a true game-changer on Australian roads. As car buyers contemplate their next purchase, the Kia EV9 Air stands as a testament to innovation and a glimpse into the automotive future that awaits us all.
