Kia EV9 Body Kit Review — Installation & Cost
Service Price
$approx. $750–1,150
Estimated price · Actual price may vary by shop
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After
Process photos
Kia EV9 electric side steps: ₩500k-₩1M. Enhances safety and convenience for easier entry/exit.
Enhancing Your Kia EV9 with a Body Kit
The Kia EV9, with its commanding presence and spacious interior, is a popular choice for families and tech enthusiasts. However, some owners find the vehicle's substantial height can make ingress and egress a bit challenging, especially for children, the elderly, or those who prefer not to step too high. This is where a thoughtfully chosen body kit, specifically electric side steps (often referred to as 'wings steps' in the Korean market), can offer a practical and stylish solution. While the term 'body kit' can encompass various exterior enhancements, this review focuses on the functional benefits and installation of electric side steps, a popular upgrade for the EV9.
The cost for installing electric side steps on a Kia EV9 typically ranges from 500,000 to 1,000,000 Korean Won (approximately $370 - $740 USD, depending on exchange rates). This investment significantly boosts the vehicle's convenience and safety, making it a worthwhile consideration for many EV9 owners. This guide delves into the advantages, the installation process, and the smart features that make these side steps a valuable addition.
Why Consider Electric Side Steps for Your EV9?
The EV9's robust design, while impressive, results in a higher ground clearance. This can be a minor hurdle for daily use. Electric side steps, like the 'Wings Step' model discussed here, address this directly. When the vehicle doors are opened, these steps automatically deploy, providing a stable platform for easier entry and exit. Crucially, they retract flush with the vehicle's undercarriage when the doors are closed, maintaining the EV9's sleek aesthetic and aerodynamic profile. This integration ensures that the vehicle's striking design is not compromised, while adding a layer of everyday practicality.
For individuals with mobility concerns, families with young children, or even those who frequently wear heels, the added stability and reduced step height offered by electric side steps are invaluable. They transform the act of getting in and out of the large SUV from a potential strain into a smooth, effortless process.
Installation Process: Precision and Care
Installing electric side steps on a Kia EV9 requires professional expertise to ensure a secure and seamless fit. The process begins with safely lifting the vehicle to allow technicians access to the undercarriage. Specialized mounting points are used to attach the side step mechanisms, ensuring they are robustly secured without compromising the vehicle's structural integrity or underbody panels. Care is taken to minimize any risk of damage or deformation to the EV9's bodywork during the installation.
Unlike fixed side steps, the electric variants integrate with the vehicle's door sensors. This means they deploy automatically when a door is opened and retract when it's closed. The wiring is carefully routed and connected to the vehicle's electrical system, often integrating with existing door control modules. This ensures that the steps function reliably and safely, complementing the vehicle's advanced technology.
Smart Features for Enhanced Safety and Convenience
The 'Wings Step' electric side steps offer several intelligent features designed for user convenience and safety. The primary function is the automatic deployment and retraction linked to the vehicle's door status. Additionally, many models incorporate subtle LED lighting along the edge of the step. This illumination activates in low-light conditions, clearly marking the step's location and providing a safer path for passengers during nighttime entry and exit. This feature is particularly beneficial for children and elderly passengers.
A key safety aspect is the 'auto-closing' function, which ensures the step only retracts fully once the user's feet have completely cleared it, significantly reducing the risk of accidental entrapment or falls. Furthermore, these steps are engineered for durability, capable of supporting weights up to 200 kg (approximately 440 lbs). Users often have manual control over the deployment and retraction, independent of the doors, and some systems even offer smart key integration for added convenience. This combination of practicality, safety, and robust construction makes electric side steps a highly satisfying upgrade for EV9 owners.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How much does a body kit cost for a Kia EV9?
In Korea, the installation cost for electric side steps on a Kia EV9 typically ranges from ₩500,000 to ₩1,000,000. Similar electric side step kits in the US can range from $400 to $1,000 or more, depending on the brand and features.
Q. How long does body kit installation take on a Kia EV9?
Professional installation of electric side steps usually takes a few hours, typically 2-4 hours. Proper maintenance involves occasional cleaning and checking the mechanism for smooth operation, especially after exposure to harsh weather conditions.
Q. Is a body kit worth it for a Kia EV9?
Electric side steps are highly beneficial for EV9 owners who prioritize easier and safer access, especially for children and the elderly. They offer a significant improvement in convenience without compromising the vehicle's aesthetic appeal.
Q. How is a body kit installed on a Kia EV9?
Installation involves securely mounting the electric side step mechanism to the vehicle's undercarriage using specialized brackets. Wiring is then connected to the vehicle's electrical system, integrating with door sensors for automatic deployment and retraction.
Q. What is the difference between FRP and polyurethane body kits for a Kia EV9?
This review focuses on electric side steps, not traditional cosmetic body kits made from materials like FRP (Fiber-Reinforced Plastic) or polyurethane. Electric side steps are functional additions primarily for improved access and safety.
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