The introduction of the EV6 is only the start of Kia's assault on the electric vehicle segment. The brand is readying no less than 14 battery-powered vehicles, all to be launched by 2027, as part of the Korean brand's plan to increase its market share in the EV market space. Part of this plan includes the introduction of the EV9, a brilliantly styled electric SUV concept that Kia has now confirmed will arrive in Europe in 2023.

Previously, the brand has chosen to reserve larger cars such as the Telluride for SUV-loving markets such as the US, but there's clearly a demand for them elsewhere, especially when they're powered by batteries.

Kia is clearly heading upmarket with the newcomer, describing the cabin as a "first-class lounge." A 27-inch, ultra-wide display will house the EV9's myriad features, such as the media interface, climate control, and various other vehicle functions.

Seemingly inspired by nature, the EV9 concept aspires to offer a harmonious cabin, courtesy of the liberal use of sustainable materials. For example, the upholstery is fashioned out of recycled plastic bottles and wool fibers. Recycled fishnets also span the width of the EV9's flooring and, together with the vegan leather, creates a luxurious atmosphere that isn't harmful to the environment.

The question is, will any of these innovative and admirable ideas make it into the production model? Well, the vegan leather certainly will; Kia has already said it plans to reduce its use of the material in the future. The dramatic interior design will definitely be toned down, with more conventional seating and a more user-friendly steering wheel being the most likely changes.

We would love to see the airy, minimalist design remain, though. However, if the rumored seven-seater version does become a reality, expect a significantly different cockpit. The handsome styling will be toned down drastically. The utilitarian design will remain, but it's unlikely the production model will retain the suicide doors.

As delightful as the 22-inch machined wheels are, we're guessing they're either too expensive or too impractical for mass production. Hopefully, the eye-catching design remains, even as an option. The EV9 also serves as a glimpse into Kia's future design language, with the brand's Global Design Center head, Karim Habib, noting that the electric SUV's "cutting-edge exterior design" is one of the "core principles that will shape our future SUV creations."

Features we'd love to see on the production model include the retractable roof rails and hood-mounted solar panel. The former aids in aero efficiency, therefore bettering range, while the latter helps regain some of the electricity used by the SUV.

The concept model utilizes the same Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) which underpins the EV6. The production EV9 may utilize a dual-motor setup, giving it 4WD capabilities. Certainly, it will be needed to achieve the claimed five-second sprint to 60 mph. The EV9 is also expected to debut the brand's AutoMode, an autonomous feature that will allow for self-driving on highway sections, sans driver intervention.