According to media reports, Kia's first three-row electric SUV, the EV9, launched in the US market this year, has made a significant impression on consumers. However, Kia is recalling some EV9s in the US due to insufficient roof protection.
In a letter sent to the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) last week, Kia America announced the recall of certain 2024 EV9 models.
The recall involves a total of 2,401 EV9 vehicles, which may have insufficient roof protection in the event of a collision. Kia began producing the EV9 in late May and identified the issue during trial production testing.
Kia has withheld from sale EV9 Light models produced between March 22, 2024, and May 28, 2024. Kia stated that vehicles produced from June 11, 2024, onwards will be equipped with new roofs.
Although Kia has not received any reports of injuries related to this defect, the company will recall EV9 Light models produced in Korea and sold in the US. Kia dealers will replace the roof crash pads free of charge for owners. Owners will receive notification letters by July 31, 2024.
In late May, the first EV9 rolled off the assembly line in Georgia, marking the first electric vehicle assembled in the state and making history. Kia stated that the EV9 has a starting price of approximately $55,000, making it one of the most affordable electric vehicles on the market and introducing new competition.
In May, Kia sold 2,187 EV9s in the US, with a total of 7,766 units sold in the first five months of 2024. The recent recall has affected some of these vehicles.
