2025.03.05 Kia
A Thrilling Winter Drive with the Kia EV9
Few experiences are as exhilarating as venturing into a vast, snow-covered landscape. And with a bold, all-wheel-drive electric SUV by your side, the journey feels all the more secure. To capture the Kia EV9’s dynamic performance in action, FPV Drone Cinematographer Jeon Bae-won led the shoot.
Winter evokes a unique mix of emotions. The crisp air and biting wind may deepen feelings of solitude, but as the year draws to a close and a new one begins, a quiet sense of hope and anticipation emerges. One moment, snowfall brings worries about the daily commute; the next, the sight of a landscape blanketed in white stirs an unexplainable excitement. Perhaps it’s nostalgia for childhood—tumbling in the snow and playing without a care—that sparks the urge to jump in the car and chase the magic of winter.
The thought of driving through a winter landscape may sound romantic, but in reality, it is not always that simple. A sudden slip or getting stuck in a snowbank can quickly turn an adventure into a challenge. So, what kind of vehicle is best suited for a winter getaway? An SUV with high ground clearance and all-wheel drive makes the perfect companion for tackling snowy terrain.
An SUV like this is far less likely to get stuck in the snow, and even if it does, it has a much better chance of getting back on the road. Now, imagine that vehicle is electric—you can relax in a warm, heated cabin and take in the serene winter landscape without worrying about unnecessary idling. Simply put, the Kia EV9 is the perfect choice.
The EV9 is Kia’s first full-size electric SUV, combining a bold, commanding presence with a spacious and comfortable three-row interior. Its all-wheel-drive system, powered by motors in both the front and rear, works with ‘Terrain Mode’ to intelligently adjust power distribution for different surfaces, including snow, sand, and mud. Built for adventure, this SUV is a reliable companion for any winter expedition.
Our journey with the EV9 took us to a winding mountain pass along the border of Hongcheon-gun and Pyeongchang-gun in Gangwon Province. As dawn broke over the ridgeline, the once-muted landscape gradually came to life with vibrant color. Braving occasional gusts of icy wind, the 4WD model, delivering 283 kW through its dual-motor setup, powered effortlessly through the twisting roads, climbing and descending with ease. With smooth acceleration, adjustable regenerative braking, and a low center of gravity, it made mountain driving both dynamic and thoroughly enjoyable.
This journey felt especially meaningful as we captured the EV9 in action, carving through the snowy landscape from a completely new perspective. Joining us was Jeon Bae-won, one of the nation’s top drone cinematographers, renowned for his exceptional expertise in FPV (First Person View) filming.
FPV refers to an aircraft controlled from a first-person perspective. Unlike typical drones, which are operated by viewing a monitor, FPV drones offer greater agility and responsiveness. Racing drones, known for their blistering speed, are a prime example of this technology. FPV’s ability to capture dynamic, high-speed footage has made it a favorite in broadcasting, film, commercials, and music videos. It is particularly well-suited for filming high-speed action, whether on a racing circuit or along winding roads like the one we explored today.
There is something uniquely captivating about the perspective of FPV drones. The EV9 appeared in an entirely new light, surrounded by an atmosphere unlike anything seen from a human’s eye level. “Flying drones feels like becoming a bird,” said Director Jeon Bae-won, explaining what drew him to drone piloting. That sensation is especially powerful when flying an FPV drone, known for its speed and agility.
Director Jeon Bae-won shared his insights into the versatility of FPV drones:
“FPV drones are compact and require fewer sensors, allowing them to operate indoors as long as there is sufficient space. With top speeds exceeding 100 km/h, they are also ideal for filming motorsports. Additionally, they can be customized to meet various filming needs—larger drones (60 to 70 cm) for carrying heavy cameras in movies and dramas, and high-performance drones with optimized motors, gear reducers, and software for capturing fast-moving action.”
His passion for piloting machines and the thrill of movement were no accident. Jeon is a well-known gearhead, deeply passionate about anything with wheels and an engine. Over the years, his collection has included everything from motorcycles of various brands to sedans and SUVs from both domestic and international manufacturers. He has also owned roadsters, sports cars, and even Hyundai’s Pony Pickup and Galloper at one point. Today, in addition to a commercial vehicle for transporting his equipment, he drives an electric sedan and a custom-built electric off-road bike.
What does the EV9 feel like from the perspective of a true gearhead and electric vehicle owner?
“I haven’t driven many vehicles of this size before, but the suspension feels firm, and the handling is impressively responsive. Even on this winding mountain pass with tight corners, it remains remarkably stable. It delivers a unique kind of thrill, different from the electric car, bike, or drone I usually operate. And watching this large, futuristic electric SUV glide across the pristine white landscape is truly mesmerizing.”
Driving an electric vehicle this effortlessly across snowy terrain was both a rare and exhilarating experience—one that only the EV9 could deliver. Its Terrain Mode proved invaluable, showcasing its full capability in challenging conditions. While driving purists might favor the rear-wheel-drive model for a more engaging experience, when speed and stability are paramount—especially for filming—the all-wheel-drive version is the obvious choice. Director Jeon wholeheartedly agreed.
In addition to its smooth handling, the EV9 captivated Jeon with its spacious three-row interior, second-row independent premium relaxation seats, and V2L function for charging external devices. On freezing days like today, when bitter winds cut through the air, reclining in the EV9’s expansive cabin while piloting a drone through the goggles would turn even the harshest filming conditions into an experience of comfort and control.
According to Jeon, small FPV drones built for speed can manage only about five minutes of flight due to their limited battery capacity. Capturing the perfect shot often requires multiple attempts, leading to frequent battery swaps and recharges—where the V2L function becomes indispensable, enabling quick and efficient charging. The EV9’s spacious cargo area also makes it an excellent choice for transporting custom drones and filming equipment, perfectly suited for long-distance shoots.
Drones, originally developed for military applications, have evolved into essential tools that enhance both society and everyday life. Beyond Jeon Bae-won’s use of FPV drones in dynamic video production, they are now widely utilized in logistics, surveillance, agriculture, disaster response, and the leisure industry. Meanwhile, research into drone taxis and urban air mobility continues to gain momentum, shaping the future of aerial transportation.
Drones and electric vehicles have quickly become essential to modern life, but their evolution is far from over. Soon, electric vehicles will take on more diverse forms and functions, offering greater versatility and efficiency. At the same time, drones will further integrate into industries that enhance safety and convenience.
We stand at the threshold of a new era of mobility—one that promises to make everyday life more seamless and convenient than ever before.
Video by HMG Journal
Photography by Choi Jin-ho
