Kia’s second all-electric car, the EV9 SUV, has begun its final round of testing ahead of an early 2023 launch. 

The pictures reveal how the production version has retained most of the squarish design proportions from the EV9 concept car, which made its debut at last year’s LA Motor Show. 

Wearing less camouflage than earlier pictures, the car can be seen coming towards the end of its rigorous testing program, which involves rough terrain tracks, as well as deep-water wading - suggesting Kia has ambitions for the EV9 to potentially match off-road capabilities of a Land Rover. 

Kia says these tests are being carried out to ensure the EV9 gives maximum reliability, even in the most challenging conditions. 

Interior pictures have yet to be released, though the concept featured a minimalist cabin, as well as a rectangular shaped steering wheel.

Placed above the dashboard was a 27inch ultra-wide display, incorporating the digital instrument cluster and infotainment screen. It’s possible a similar setup in the production version could resemble the Kia EV6 crossover released earlier in the year. 

Like the EV6, the EV9 will also be based on the Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) - a new architecture developed specifically for future EVs from Kia. 

This means it could inherit the EV6’s 77.4kWh battery which supports super fast charging speeds.

Power output and overall range remain unknown, though Kia claimed the EV9 concept was capable of an estimated range of 300 miles, while 0-60mph was around 5 seconds. 

When it is released in 2023, it will be Kia’s largest all-electric car in its range, and will accommodate space for up to 7 occupants. 

Pricing for the EV9 has yet to be released, but expect it to cost from £55,000.