Kia America has issued a recall for certain EV9 vehicles manufactured between September 25, 2023, and May 28, 2024, due to a software issue that could potentially increase the risk of pedestrian injury.
The affected vehicles are equipped with Remote Smart Parking Assist 2 (RSPA 2), a system that allows drivers to remotely park and unpark their vehicles in various parking spaces. The recall affects approximately 12,400 vehicles in the United States.
The software issue, which is related to the integrated electronic brake system, can cause the vehicle to apply insufficient braking force when stopping at or below 2 miles per hour. This could increase the risk of a collision with pedestrians, particularly in crowded parking lots or other areas where there is a high volume of foot traffic.
Kia America has identified the root cause of the problem and is working to develop a software update to address it. The update will be available to affected vehicle owners free of charge. Kia is urging owners of affected vehicles to contact their local dealer to schedule an appointment for the update.
In the meantime, Kia recommends that owners of affected vehicles exercise caution when using RSPA 2, especially in areas where there is a high risk of pedestrian traffic. Drivers should be aware of their surroundings and be prepared to stop quickly if necessary. The Kia EV9, a three row electric SUV, was recently recalled due to a software issue that could cause unintended braking.
While no similar issues were found in the US market, the updated software has been implemented to address the problem. The EV9 is available in three trim levels: Light, Light Long Range, and GT-Line. The Light and Light Long Range trims are more affordable options, with the Light Long Range offering the longest range of 304 miles.
The Light trim is equipped with a standard battery pack and rear-wheel drive, while the Light Long Range trim features a larger battery pack and rear-wheel drive. Both trims come standard with a range of features, including a touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a suite of advanced driver assistance systems.
The GT-Line trim is the most expensive option but comes standard with all-wheel drive and a more powerful electric motor. It also features a sportier exterior design and a more luxurious interior. The GT-Line is equipped with a larger battery pack than the Light trims, providing a range of up to 260 miles.
The EV9 is now manufactured in the US at the West Point assembly plant in Georgia. This move is part of Kia’s strategy to increase its presence in the US market and to meet growing demand for electric vehicles. The EV9 is expected to compete with other electric SUVs, such as the Tesla Model X and the Ford Mustang Mach-E.
