Kia EV9 Dash Cam Installation & Battery Pack Review

Is a Dash Cam Power Pack Necessary for the Kia EV9?

Many EV owners grapple with a common concern: "Can my dash cam continuously record while the car is parked?" Unlike traditional gasoline cars, electric vehicles' main batteries can drain quickly when the engine is off. Even for a large EV like the Kia EV9, concerns about powering a dash cam during parking are prevalent. This article explores the tangible differences a dash cam power pack makes when installed on a Kia EV9.

Why a Dash Cam Alone Isn't Enough

A common misconception is that a dash cam installation is sufficient on its own. However, the unique nature of electric vehicles necessitates careful battery management, especially when parked. For a vehicle like the Kia EV9, while the battery recharges during driving, running a dash cam in park mode places a load on the main battery. This risk is amplified for drivers who frequently leave their vehicles parked for extended periods, such as during business trips or international travel. The continuous power draw required for recording can lead to main battery depletion, highlighting the critical need for a dedicated power solution.

Power Pack vs. Direct Connection to Main Battery

Let's compare using a dedicated dash cam power pack (like an Eco Powerpack) versus a direct connection to the vehicle's main battery.

The primary advantage of a power pack is its independent power supply. With a dedicated battery capacity solely for the dash cam, stable recording is possible regardless of the main battery's status. These packs typically range from 12,000 to 20,000 mAh, enabling continuous dash cam operation for 3 to 5 days during parking. In contrast, a direct connection to the main battery offers lower initial installation costs as no additional components are needed. However, it continuously strains the main battery and can potentially conflict with the EV's sophisticated battery management system. This can lead to battery shortage issues, especially after prolonged parking periods.

For electric vehicles like the Kia EV9, a dedicated power pack is highly recommended. Despite the added expense, it offers a far more efficient and protective solution for maintaining the longevity of the main battery.

Kia EV9 Dash Cam Power Pack Installation Example

We recently installed an Eco Powerpack S12, a slim-profile auxiliary battery, on a Kia EV9. Its thinner design compared to previous models offers better interior space utilization.

The chosen installation location was beneath the driver's seat. This position was selected to balance passenger convenience and safety. The area under the seat is relatively spacious and provides protection from driving vibrations. The battery is securely fastened using Velcro tape, ensuring it remains stable during driving and seat adjustments. The Eco Powerpack's light weight (approximately 300g) prevents interference with the seat's weight sensors.

When the seat is in its normal position, even a rear passenger can sit comfortably without the battery being noticeable or obstructive. This seamless integration is crucial, as passengers should ideally be unaware of the power pack's presence. Interior obstruction can lead to future issues.

Following installation, two key settings on the dash cam display are essential. First, switch the dash cam to operate in power pack mode. Second, configure the memory recording setting to prioritize parking mode.

The parking-centric recording setting means the dash cam records continuously during driving but only saves footage when parked. This approach helps mitigate dash cam storage capacity issues and extends the power pack's operational duration.

Benefits of a Dash Cam Power Pack

The primary benefit is uninterrupted 24-hour recording capability, even when the vehicle is parked and the engine is off. This ensures comprehensive coverage for security and accident documentation. Furthermore, by using a dedicated power source, the vehicle's main battery is protected from the constant drain of the dash cam, preserving its health and longevity. This is particularly important for EVs like the Kia EV9, where main battery performance and lifespan are critical considerations.