Every unnecessary kilogram spinning at the end of a Kia EV9's axle is a kilogram the battery has to accelerate and decelerate thousands of times per journey — and that costs range. The EV9 runs a dual-motor AWD producing 379 hp with a 99.8 kWh battery, and like every electric vehicle, its efficiency is directly affected by the mass the motors have to spin. Stock cast wheels on the EV9 weigh roughly 14-15 kg each. Replacing them with forged monoblock rims brings that figure down to under 10.5 kg per corner. Across four corners, that is a measurable reduction in the energy required to accelerate and decelerate the wheels — energy that stays in the battery instead.
The Bete Noire Ver1.1 is an aero-optimised five-spoke design with partially enclosed spoke faces that reduce turbulent airflow around the brake area, directly benefiting range. It was conceived specifically for electric vehicles, where aerodynamic efficiency around the wheel matters as much as weight. The partially enclosed spoke faces reduce turbulent airflow through the brake area, which contributes to range. In satin black it complements the EV9's futuristic design language. In brushed titanium it adds a mechanical contrast to the car's otherwise smooth surfaces.
| Bolt pattern | 5x114.3 |
| Recommended diameter | 21" |
| Width range | 9J all round |
| Offset range | ET35 - ET45 |
| Centre bore | 67.1 mm |
| Material | 6061-T6 forged aluminium |
| Weight | ~30% lighter than equivalent cast wheel |
On an EV, unsprung mass affects more than handling. Heavier wheels increase the energy consumed by regenerative braking cycles, reduce the effectiveness of the regenerative braking with electro-hydraulic calipers, and add rolling resistance that the motors must continuously overcome. Forged wheels address all three factors simultaneously. For a deeper comparison of wheel types, see our forged vs flow-formed vs cast wheels guide.
The Bete Noire Ver1.1 is part of Hodoor's AI wheel design programme. The system generates over 1,000 unique wheel concepts daily, each engineered to be manufacturable as a forged monoblock. You are not choosing from a static catalogue — the AI produces designs tuned to a specific vehicle's dimensions, brake clearances, and visual character. For EVs, the algorithm also optimises spoke geometry for aerodynamic drag reduction. The design phase is free. You only pay when a concept moves into production.
If none of the AI-generated concepts suit, our in-house designer creates bespoke options from hand sketches or reference images. Either route leads to the same CNC-machined 6061-T6 billet, the same balancing and inspection process, and the same four-to-eight-week production timeline. For guidance on diameter and width, see our article on choosing the right wheel size.
Will lighter wheels actually improve the EV9's range?
Yes. Reducing unsprung mass decreases the energy required to accelerate and decelerate the wheels. On an EV with a 99.8 kWh battery, the cumulative effect over thousands of acceleration-deceleration cycles is measurable. The exact range improvement depends on driving conditions, but the physics are unambiguous: less mass to spin means less energy consumed.
Are these compatible with the EV9's torque vectoring system?
Yes. The Bete Noire Ver1.1 is engineered for the E-GMP platform's specifications. The bolt pattern, bore, and offset range are matched to the EV9's hub assembly. Contact us with your specific trim level and we will confirm the exact fitment.
How do forged wheels handle the EV9's weight?
The EV9 weighs approximately 2.6 tonnes due to its battery pack. Forged 6061-T6 aluminium has a significantly higher strength-to-weight ratio than cast aluminium, making it better suited to heavy vehicles. The aligned grain structure distributes load more evenly, reducing the risk of cracking under high kerb loads. More on this in our exclusive wheel upgrades guide.
Browse other aftermarket options including the Bmw M8 Turbo Custom Body Kit By Ildar Project or the Brabus Carbon Fiber Body Kit Set For Porsche 911 Turbo. For the full range of AI-designed wheel options, see the complete AI wheels collection.
To order or request a custom variation, email [email protected] with your car details.
