![Swivel seats!? Kia reveals new images of EV9 SUV inside and out ahead of global debut [Video]](https://i0.wp.com/electrek.co/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2023/03/Kia-EV9-Rear-Hero.jpg?resize=1200,628&quality=82&strip=all&ssl=1)
Swivel seats!? Kia reveals new images of EV9 SUV inside and out ahead of global debut [Video]
Weeks after teasing the public with a peek at its shadowy exterior, Kia has finally shared its first official images of its upcoming EV9 SUV both inside and out. Described with an “opposites united” design philosophy, this all-electric SUV looks like it will offer plenty of space inside and atop Hyundai Motor Group’s E-GMP platform and has unique six- and seven-seat options you’ve gotta see.
The Kia EV9 will debut as the second all-electric model donning the Korean automaker’s new “EV” series nomenclature and its first three-row, all-electric SUV. Like the EV6 crossover that proceeded it, the EV9 its built upon Hyundai Motor Group’s 800V E-GMP platform, offering a “technology for life” design philosophy throughout that, “promotes intuitive interactions between humans and machines.”
Last summer, we got our very first look at the EV9 prototype, although it was a camouflaged version. In late January, we reported what we believed to be the expected specs of the Kia EV9, which could arrive in five different trim options. We will learn if that’s true later this month, but more on that below.
In February, we shared what appeared to be the first public sighting of the EV9, which very closely resembled the original concept that debuted back in November of 2021. However, Kia would not confirm if the video was legitimate. Instead, it released some teaser footage of its own featuring a dark silhouetted exterior, promising more visuals to come.
Today is that day and Kia has shared the following exterior and interior images you’ll see below, alongside an official unveiling video. Have a look.
Our first official look at the Kia EV9
As you can see from the images above, the Kia EV9 does in fact closely resemble the original concept EV introduced two years ago. The automaker states that a “bold for nature” design philosophy went into the exterior of the SUV, which combines elements from both the natural and material worlds.
The front features a “digital pattern lighting grill” that helps make up the Kia EV9’s signature “digital tiger face.” Do you see it? Kia points out that two clusters of small cube lamps (notice it’s not calling them “parametric pixels” like Hyundai does) are placed within the body adjacent to each of the headlamps. LED daytime running lights offer an animated lighting pattern than you can see in the video below.
Other exterior features include polygonal design language, particularly noticeable on the SUV’s side profile as well as triangular structures in the fender. The rear features slim lights that mirror its front, offering what Kia describes as a, “strong and confident stance.” Onto the interior.
While we’ve previously been able to surmise what the exterior of the Kia EV9 will generally look like, this is our first real look at its cabin, and it’s pretty. Given the super flat E-GMP platform to build upon, Kia’s designers prioritized space, comfort, and technology throughout the interior of the three-row SUV. Per the release:
Built on Kia’s Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), the EV9’s long wheelbase, low beltline, and completely flat electric vehicle architecture have facilitated the creation of generous space for all occupants to connect and relax with lounge-style comfort in all three rows of seats. Offered in both six and seven-seat formats, Kia captured feedback from families to evaluate seating configurations and features to ensure the EV9 delivers equality of space, comfort and experience for all occupants without placing all of its focus on the driver.
As you’ve probably already noticed in the images above, the Kia EV9 is unique in that its second row seats can swivel 180-degrees to face the passengers seated in the third row… or if those passengers want to wave at the cars behind them like some of us did in station wagons as children.
The panoramic dash features two 12.3-inch touchscreen to control vehicle functions while limiting physical buttons, simultaneously providing more opportunities for upgrades over-the-air in the future. Charging points are available throughout the cabin, including a wireless pad in the front along with ports in the third-row.
Kia states the EV9 will make its official global debut later this month, when it will share more information about the electric SUVs performance, trim levels, etc. We will be sure to keep you in the loop as those pertinent details come in, but in the meantime, check out the full EV9 unveiling video below:
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Tesla has officially launched a new version of the Cybertruck RWD for $70,000 in the US and Mexico.
It’s more expensive than previously announced and loses a ton of features, but it has more range.
Earlier today, we reported on Tesla unveiling in the Middle East a new ‘Cybertruck Long Range’.
The automaker confirmed that it had a single rear-wheel-drive (RWD) motor, but unlike the previously announced Cybertruck RWD, Tesla said it had 350 rather than 250 miles of range.
This would point to having the same battery pack as the Dual Motor and Cyberbeast currently available.
At the time, it wasn’t clear if Tesla was launching this specific version for the Middle East or if it was the new Cybertruck RWD to replace the previously announced $62,000 version.
Now, Tesla has opened orders in the online configurator for the US and Mexico of the new Cybertruck Long Range RWD:
It starts at $70,000 before incentive – $9,000 more than the previously announced Cybertruck, but it has 100 more miles on a single charge at 350 miles.
It’s also $10,000 less expensive than the Cybertruck Dual Motor.
You not only lose a motor, but you also lose the powered tonneau. You can buy a “soft tonneau” for $750 and it increases the range to 362 miles:
The new cheaper version also loses the adaptive suspension, the lightbar at the back, the rear screen, and even the bed outlets, according to Tesla’s website.
Tesla says that deliveries are going to start in June.
Electrek’s Take
I might be wrong, but I would assume that the previously announced $61,000 Cybertruck is not going to happen. The Cybertruck is likely proving to be too low-volume to warrant producing different sizes of battery packs.
However, this version might be just to make the $80,000 Cybertruck look better.
It’s not to lose the AWD, the tonneau, the adaptive suspension, and even the bed outlets for $10,000.
These are all pretty essential features of the Cybertruck. I don’t think this version will sell much at $70,000. Maybe they get a few sales of people trying to take advantage of the $7,500 tax credit.
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![This electric excavator has battery swap tech that lets it recharge in minutes [update]](https://i0.wp.com/electrek.co/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/04/electric-excavator.jpg?resize=1200,628&quality=82&strip=all&ssl=1)
The electric construction equipment experts at XCMG just released a new, 25 ton electric crawler excavator ahead of bauma 2025 – and they have their eye on the global urban construction, mine operations, and logistical material handling markets.
UPDATE: telematics announcement.
Powered by a high-capacity 400 kWh lithium iron phosphate battery capable of delivering up to 8 hours of continuous operation, the XE215EV electric excavator promises uninterrupted operation at a lower cost of ownership and with even less downtime than its diesel counterparts.
XCMG is delivering on part of that reduced downtime promise with the lower maintenance and easier repair needs of electric equipment, and delivering on the rest of it with lickety-quick DC fast charging that can recharge the machine’s massive battery in 1.5-2 hours … but that’s not the slick bit. The XCMG XE125EV can be powered up without leaving the job site thanks to its BYD battery swap technology.
We first covered XCMG and its battery swap technology back in January, and covered similar battery-swap tech being developed by MOOG Construction offshoot ZQUIP, as well – but while XCMG’s battery tech has been in production for several years, it’s still not widely known about in the West (even within the industry).
XCMG showed off its latest electric equipment at the December 2024 bauma China, including an updated version of its of its 85-ton autonomous electric mining truck that features a fully cab-less design – meaning there isn’t even a place for an operator to sit, let alone operate. And that’s too bad, because what operator wouldn’t want to experience an electric truck putting down 1070 hp more than 16,000 lb-ft of torque!?
Easy in, easy out
The best part? All of the company’s heavy equipment assets – from excavators to terminal tractors to dump trucks and wheel loaders – all use the same 400 kWh BYD battery packs, Milwaukee tool style. That means an equipment fleet can utilize x number of vehicles with a fraction of the total battery capacity and material needs of other asset brands. That’s not just a smart use of limited materials, it’s a smarter use of energy.
You can check out all the XE215EV’s specs at this tear sheet, and get an in-person look at the Chinese company’s latest electric excavator this week in Munich, Germany.
Telematics announcement at bauma
Earlier today, XCMG launched its next-generation Xrea Global Telematics Platform, integrating IoT, big data, cloud computing, and AI to enable what it’s caling, “seamless cross-border fleet management.”
The new telematics platform supports a dozen languages via PC and mobile interfaces, and offers real-time diagnostics, predictive maintenance, and data-driven optimization of both the vehicle and the vehicle’s batteries, empowering equipment managers and fleet operators to track fleets across town, or across time zones.
“XCMG remains committed to advancing engineering technology to empower a sustainable future. Our mission is to deliver efficient, intelligent, and eco-friendly lifecycle solutions for global clients,” said Mr. Yang Dongsheng, Chairman of XCMG Group and XCMG Machinery. “Today, 19% of our product portfolio comprises green innovations under our ‘Green Mountain’ new energy line, with full electrification across all series underway.”
SOURCE | IMAGES: XCMG; via PR Newswire.
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