Kia Introduces Paid Digital Upgrades for its All-Electric SUV, the EV9

Kia Motors is introducing a new era in automotive industry by allowing its customers to purchase digital upgrades for their electric vehicles. The company has recently announced the launch of a revolutionary new system called the “Kia Connect Store.” This online marketplace will enable owners of the new all-electric three-row SUV, the EV9, to purchase digital features and services for their vehicle.

Kia’s New EV9 Electric SUV Specs

The threerow EV9 is set to offer exciting specs to its customers. In addition to the standard features such as an 800V charging architecture, vehicleto-load tech and support for ultrawide band digital keys, the vehicle also offers Level 3 self-driving in some countries when opting for the GT-line trim. Moreover, Kia has announced plans to release a Highway Driving Pilot system that uses LiDAR and other sensors to allow drivers to take a break from driving when conditions allow. With an RWD Long Range model offering up to 336 miles of range on WLTP testing with a 99.8kWh battery and AWD variant with the same battery and a RWD Standard Range base configuration, the EV9 packs quite a punch.

Kia’s High-Performance Version of EV9 Electric Crossover

Kia has set its sights on entering the high-performance electric car market. The company has announced that it is developing a high-performance version of its EV9 electric crossover. The company plans to release the GT version of the EV9 in early 2025. Although Kia has not yet revealed any detailed specifications or power figures of this high-performance version, CEO Ho Sung Song has stated that they are aware of growing demand for high-performance vehicles in the electric era.

Kia Connect Store Features

Kia’s Connect Store provides continuous updates of the EV9 with Over the Air (OTA) system. With this online marketplace, customers can purchase upgrades ranging from driver aids to digital conveniences. One such example is the Lighting Pattern feature, which is an add-on available for the unique LED-illuminated grille up front (standard on the EV9 GT-Line), and provides a customizable lighting pattern that displays upon startup. The Boost feature is another optional upgrade available for purchase, which ups the torque output of the EV9’s powertrain by 74 lbft, allowing it to reach 60mph in just 5.3 seconds.

In addition to these exciting features, customers can also opt for other upgrades such as a remote parking assist system or content streaming services for passengers. Kia has clarified that both one-time payment and subscription-based options will be available for the Connect Store, and specifics of payment methods may vary by markets.

Pricing and Availability

Although Kia has not disclosed any details regarding pricing on individual features or packages for the EV9, there are speculations that the cost of upgrades could be higher compared to conventional cars due to the technology incorporated in them. Customers can access Kia’s Connect Store through an app on their smartphone or tablet while keeping their vehicle connected over Wi-Fi.

The EV9 is currently available in some markets, and more details about its pricing and availability are expected soon.

Kia Motors is taking a significant leap forward with this innovative digital marketplace. The Kia Connect Store offers customers a lot of options to purchase extras for their EV9 or enhance its existing features. With continuous updates available through OTA system, customers can look forward to an ever-evolving driving experience in their electric vehicles.

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