A million volts is enough to kill anyone, but model and car enthusiast Jodie Kidd took it all in her stride as Kia zapped her with lightning bolts.

The death-defying stunt saw Jodie sitting on a raised platform, protected from the ‘lightning machine’ by nothing more than a thin chainmail suit. The metal clothing acts as a Faraday cage, conducting the current around her body and allowing Jodie to control the dramatic electricity sparks and even shoot lightning bolts from her fingertips.

The ‘lightning’ photography was then combined with shots of Jodie to create dramatic images to support the launch of the new Kia EV9, a supersized all-electric seven-seater SUV.

“Being electrocuted was one of the most petrifying things I’ve ever done — but also such an amazing experience,” exclaimed Jodie. “Not many people can say they have had a million volts through their body and been able to shoot lightning with their fingers!”

“This stunt was all about celebrating electricity and how the future of motoring is electric, for the launch of Kia’s new fully electric car, the EV9. With a range of more than 300 miles, ultra-rapid charging, and the ability to power anything with a three-pin plug, it’s perfect for family adventures. You can even use it to boil a kettle and stop for a nice cup of tea!”

The Kia EV9

Jodie’s PR blurb segues nicely to sharing details of Kia’s new flagship. The EV9 is a mammoth seven-seater SUV with three rows of seating in its vast cabin. Powered by nothing more than electricity, a full charge of the battery will see it motoring along for more than 300 miles — enough for even the most demanding school run.

Created with the environment in mind, the EV9 has a leather-free cabin with many elements made from recycled PET plastic from items such as fishing nets and plastic bottles.

A recent study by Kia shows that over 26% of parents have been encouraged by their children to switch to an electric car. This influence primarily comes from children learning about environmental concerns at school, making up over a third of the reasoning, and 35% of the children consider these vehicles to be cool. Their favourite TV shows and YouTubers also sway a third of the children. According to the survey of 2,000 adults, 87% of these parents have subsequently looked into the prospect of purchasing an electric vehicle because of these discussions.

“As a parent, I know exactly how important the environment is to the next generation,” adds Jodie. “I have had many conversations with my son Indio about what we can do to live more sustainably — including buying an electric car.”

One of 15 fully electric models that Kia will be launching globally by 2027, the EV9 range starts at £64,995, with UK deliveries expected to begin in January 2024.

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