Kia EV9 to offer conditional Level 3 autonomous driving in select markets

Kia said that the EV9, its flagship three-row electric sport utility vehicle (SUV), will be equipped with conditional Level 3 autonomous driving in select markets.

Through the Highway Driving Pilot (HDP) system, the Hyundai EV9 will allow would-be owners to — where conditions permit— take a break from controlling the vehicle momentarily.

Conditional driving automation is made possible thanks to 15 sensors (including two lidars), which scan and detect objects in a full 360-degree field of view, enabling the HDP system to detect and react to the road and other users to prevent potential collisions.

Additionally, the Kia EV9 will come with the Kia Connect Store. It’s the brand’s way of allowing future owners of the electric vehicle (EV) to upgrade their rides.

Described to function like the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store, Kia EV9 owners can add features to the SUV simply by getting them from the Kia Connect Store.

An example set by the Seoul-based brand is the addition of the Lighting Pattern feature to the Digital Pattern Lighting Grille by way of the Kia Connect Store.

“Customers can also specify additional performance for the AWD EV9 with an optional Boost feature that unlocks an extra 100Nm (Newton-meters) of torque for the electric motor for a more thrilling and dynamic driving experience,” Kia wrote in a press release.

Further, the Kia Remote Smart Parking Assist 2 is also offered as a digital feature and can be added to the EV9 through the Kia Connect Store. Similarly, content streaming for occupants to enjoy through the vehicle’s Audio Visual, Navigation, and Telematics system can be done using the app.

“The Kia EV9 transcends all aspects of traditional SUV thinking and represents the pinnacle of Kia’s design and engineering capabilities. Created to meet the needs of all family members, the EV9 also spearheads Kia’s rapid transition to a sustainable mobility solutions provider, not just by its advanced EV architecture, but also through the numerous recycled and sustainable materials used in its creation,” said Kia President and Chief Executive Officer Ho Sung Song.

Photos from Kia

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