The Kia EV9 high-voltage battery pack has undergone a detailed teardown by Munro & Associates, revealing a design that prioritizes repairability. The 99.8-kilowatt-hour battery pack, which powers the Kia EV9 electric SUV, was disassembled and analyzed by the engineering consulting firm, showcasing impressive features that could ease the minds of current and future owners when it comes to potential repairs.
One standout feature of the battery pack is the ease with which it can be removed from the vehicle. With just a few electrical connectors, two ports for the liquid cooling plate, and several bolts, the entire pack can be taken out without the need for special tools or adhesives. This simple removal process makes it much more accessible for maintenance and repair tasks.
Additionally, Kia engineers have thoughtfully included two access plates for serviceable items within the pack. These plates provide easy access to components like a big fuse and the battery management supervisor unit, allowing for quick and hassle-free replacements without having to remove the entire pack.
Once the pack is removed, the 38 individual modules within it are easily accessible for removal and replacement if necessary. Each module consists of four groups of three cells, connected in parallel within the groups and in series overall. While it remains unclear whether the modules themselves can be repaired or if they need to be replaced entirely, the teardown revealed that the pack operates within a voltage range of 462V to 643V.
The battery tray itself also received praise for its high-quality welds and efficient cooling system design. Kia opted for a straightforward approach with a single aluminum cold plate at the bottom of the tray, which cools the battery modules. The glycol-based coolant system features just one inlet and one outlet, simplifying the plumbing and potentially reducing maintenance issues. A composite shield beneath the cold plate serves as both protection and thermal insulation.
The teardown video, available for viewing, highlights the similarities between the EV9’s battery pack and those of other E-GMP-based EVs in Kia and Hyundai’s lineups, such as the EV6 and Ioniq 5. This uniformity suggests that owners of these vehicles can expect a similar level of ease when it comes to repairing their battery packs.
In conclusion, the Kia EV9’s high-voltage battery pack stands out for its thoughtful design that prioritizes repairability. With easy access to serviceable components, simple removal and replacement processes, and efficient cooling systems, owners can have peace of mind knowing that maintenance and repairs won’t be a headache.