Unsurprisingly, the EV9 isn’t too far removed from a certain other in the spotlight.

MAKE that two odd numbers from South Korea … the Kia EV9 concept presented at the Los Angeles motor show offers a same-but-different glimpse at a forthcoming big electric sports utility as a certain sister car also debuting today. 

Meaning? Well, it’s Kia’s equivalent of the Hyundai Seven Concept also displaying (but not too close) at the same event.

The cars serve common purpose as previews of production models coming within a couple of years.

They are on the same enlarged version of the Group’s E-GMP electric car platform, seem to be more or less dimensionally equivalent and range, recharging and performance claims are much of a muchness.

Kia’s product, though, is even boxier in look and the cabin delivers in a seating style the Hyundai – regardless that it displays as a upmarket lounge - will also presumably adopt; so three rows of forward-facing chairs with heaps of room for all passengers.

Each seat, though, is designed to fold and/or swivel to enable a range of different interior modes for “different journey situations and requirements”.

As with the Hyundai, EV9 uses a yoke-style steering wheel. Other interior features include  a 27-inch ultra-wide screen – incorporating media, climate control and 'comfort functionality' – and single-piece panoramic glass roof.

The EV9 rides on machined 22-inch alloy wheels and takes latest interpretation of Kia's 'tiger nose' grille signature, albeit in digital form, with LED light strips and metallic trim outlining the shape and capable of producing fancy displays.

Designers have engineered aerodynamic efficiency with retractable roof rails and camera-based side mirrors. Range is optimised with a solar panel integrated into the bonnet vents.

At the rear, the triangular D-pillar (rear-most pillar) shape is said to "[create] a unique Daylight Opening (DLO) signature", joining an unconventional T-shaped tail-light design, prominent Kia badging, and an imposing lower skid plate.