Kia's Sustainability Drive: The EV9 Leading the Way with 10 Must-Have Sustainability Items

In a world where environmental consciousness is becoming increasingly important, Kia Motors has emerged as a frontrunner in the automotive industry, leading the charge toward sustainability. With unveiling their groundbreaking '10 must-have sustainability items,' Kia is setting new standards for sustainable materials in their future model lines. This ambitious initiative is part of Kia's Design Sustainability Strategy, which aims to achieve sustainability at scale and create a more eco-friendly future.

Kia's commitment to sustainability is not a recent development; it has been woven into the fabric of the company's operations for years. Starting with the Kia Soul EV, Kia integrated bioplastic and sugar cane bio-fiber into their products, setting the stage for their continued pursuit of sustainability. Today, Kia's range boasts plant-based components, recycled PET, and even discarded fishing nets utilized in producing fabrics and carpets.

Looking toward the future, Kia has set its sights on carbon neutrality across its operations by 2045. To achieve this ambitious goal, Kia has revealed the '10 must-have sustainability items' that will serve as a baseline for sustainable materials in their upcoming model lines. One such model leading the way is the much-anticipated Kia EV9, which incorporates these sustainability items throughout its design.

Bioplastic takes center stage as one of the key sustainability items in the Kia EV9. Derived from renewable biomass sources such as vegetable oils, corn extract, sawdust, and sugar cane, bioplastics offer a viable alternative to traditional plastics. By utilizing bioplastic in various components of the car's interior, including the dashboard, console, pillars, and garnishes, Kia reduces reliance on fossil fuels while diversifying sourcing and minimizing exposure to unwanted chemicals.

Another significant sustainability item is post-consumer material (PCM) plastic, which utilizes recycled material from existing products. This innovative approach reduces plastic waste and conserves non-renewable resources by minimizing the need for virgin materials. Kia incorporates PCM plastic in the door garnishes of the EV9, showcasing its commitment to waste reduction and landfill regeneration.

Kia's dedication to phasing out leather has led to the adoption of Bio Polyurethane (PU) as an optimal alternative. Bio PU contributes to overall carbon emissions reduction and incorporates plant-based components, aligning with Kia's sustainability goals. The Kia EV9 electric SUV showcases Bio PU in its seats and interior coverings, offering a comfortable and eco-friendly seating experience.

Recycled PET fabric, known for its excellent recyclability, moisture resistance, and impact resistance, plays a significant role in the EV9's interior design. Kia takes it a step further by using recycled yarn to partially compose its PET fabric, ensuring sustainability and durability in the seats, headliner, sun visor, garnish, and headrests of the Kia EV9. This commitment to using recycled materials also extends to the carpets, where 100 percent recycled PET, including recycled fishing nets, is utilized. By repurposing discarded fishing nets, Kia contributes to waste reduction and addresses the critical issue of marine life devastation caused by such nets.

Bio PU foam, with its versatility and reduced impact on the planet, finds its place in the headrests of the Kia EV9, providing comfort and sustainability in one package. Bio paint, derived from rapeseed oil, serves as a more sustainable alternative to conventional paint made from crude oil. The use of bio paint on the door switch panels of the EV9 minimizes environmental impact without compromising quality.

Kia's commitment to sustainability extends to the elimination of harmful chemicals. By adopting BTX-free paints, which exclude the use of benzene, toluene, and xylene, Kia ensures high-quality protection and finish for its models while minimizing the use of polluting chemicals. This sustainable approach is evident throughout the interior of the new Kia EV9, except for the door window switch panel, which is coated with bio paint, further reducing environmental impact.

Recycled PET yarn, derived from 100 percent recycled PET bottles, is another key sustainability item in the Kia EV9. With more than 70 recycled PET bottles used in various cabin applications, including seat stitching, Kia adds an extra layer of sustainability to the EV9's interior design. This innovative use of recycled materials contributes to waste reduction and promotes a circular economy.

The EV9's commitment to sustainability extends beyond the cabin, as recycled PET felt takes center stage on the luggage board. Soft and durable, this felt is made from recycled PET bottles, offering a sustainable solution for transporting various items. Additionally, the PET felt's good acoustic absorption properties contribute to a comfortable driving experience by reducing sound transmission from the rear of the car to the rest of the cabin.

Kia's emphasis on sustainable materials and practices in the Kia EV9 demonstrates their proactive approach to environmental conservation. By integrating these 10 must-have sustainability items, Kia sets a new benchmark for the automotive industry and showcases their dedication to advancing sustainable technologies.

But sustainability isn't the only area where Kia shines. The EV9 also embraces cutting-edge technology and a commitment to electric mobility. As an all-electric vehicle, the EV9 embodies Kia's vision for a greener future, aligning with the global shift toward sustainable transportation.

With its sleek design and advanced features, the Kia EV9 is poised to significantly impact the electric vehicle market. Its sustainable materials, combined with its impressive range and performance, position the EV9 as a desirable option for eco-conscious consumers who seek both style and environmental responsibility.