Kia Corporation has begun deliveries of its new EV9 battery powered flagship SUV, the second model built on Hyundai Motor Group’s E-GMP dedicated EV platform following the launch last year of the EV6.

The EV9 has a 99.8 kWh battery allowing it to travel 500km (300 miles) on a single charge, the longest range within Kia’s current EV lineup. The SUV has three rows of seats and comes with a choice of 2WD and 4WD.

When the EV9 was unveiled last March, Kia said its long wheelbase, low belt line and flat electric vehicle platform had “allowed the creation of generous space for all occupants to connect and relax in lounge style comfort in all three rows of seats”.

The second row seats can swivel 180 degrees allowing for better interaction between occupants.

Kia said it had a strong order book for the EV9. A company official said 60% of pre-orders had come from private customers, 55% of whom were new to the brand, adding “we are confident the EV9 will lead the Kia EV brand while pioneering a new segment with its innovative product offering and premium value as a flagship model”.