Kia Temporarily Pauses EV9 Reservations in Canada Amid High Demand

Kia’s flagship EV9 electric SUV receives overwhelming reservations in Canada, prompting a temporary pause in the program.

• Kia’s new flagship EV9 electric SUV gains notable interest in Canada, leading to high reservation demand.

• Temporary pause in the reservation program to address processing issues, with plans to relaunch soon.

• The EV9’s strong debut in the home market and Canada showcases growing appeal for Kia’s electric lineup.

Kia, the South Korean automaker, recently unveiled its flagship electric SUV, the EV9. With online reservations opening on Monday in Canada, the response to the new electric SUV surpassed expectations, as the vehicle received “notably high” levels of reservations. As a result of the unexpected demand, Kia has temporarily paused the reservation program to address processing issues and is planning to relaunch it soon to accommodate the enthusiastic interest.

The Kia EV9 marks the company’s introduction to the world of three-row electric SUVs and represents the automaker’s dedication to the new era of electric mobility. During its debut in March, the EV9 was introduced as a model that caters to consumers’ needs, providing ample interior space for passengers and cargo, towing capabilities of up to 5,000 lbs, enhanced vehicle dynamics, and state-of-the-art technology and software features.

The EV9 boasts Kia’s new dynamic design, and inside, the electric SUV offers a next-gen ultramodern Connected Car Navigation Cockpit operating system, executive seats for all passengers with a special “Relaxation Mode,” and concealed haptic switches centrally positioned for essential infotainment features, which reveal themselves when the EV9 is turned on.

Additionally, the EV9 comes with the latest in-vehicle software and connectivity technology, including Kia’s most advanced Highway Driving Pilot, V2L onboard power generator abilities, and over-the-air updates.

The EV9 made a strong debut in its home market, gathering over 13,000 preorders in just eight days and selling 1,334 units during its first month, almost surpassing the sales of the EV6 electric crossover. More than 50% of preorders were from new customers, signaling the growing appeal of Kia’s electric lineup.

Canada’s launch of the EV9 was met with a similarly high demand, leading to a temporary halt in reservations due to unexpected website traffic. Kia reassures potential buyers that the reservation program will be relaunched soon and advises them to stay updated through email, Kia.ca, and social channels.

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Kia’s expansion plans for the EV9 extend to the US market, where it is set to launch later this year. US customers will have two powertrain options, including a standard 76.1 kWh battery with a 215 hp (160 kW) motor and an optional 99.8 kWh battery with higher power output.

Production of the Kia EV9 in the US will take place at the West Point, Georgia facility starting next year. While official prices have not been disclosed, the EV9 is estimated to start at around $60,000 for the standard battery variant and over $70,000 for the larger battery option. Kia’s pursuit of the electric vehicle market positions the EV9 as a promising addition to the automaker’s electric vehicle lineup, paving the way towards sustainable mobility.