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Kia’s EV9 vs. The Zombie Apocalypse: The Most Insane Car Ad of the Year?

Kia Just Made the Wildest EV Ad Ever—And the Internet Can’t Get Enough

By: Kia Australia

Could an electric SUV be your best weapon in a zombie apocalypse? According to Kia’s latest ad, the answer is a resounding YES.

The automotive giant just dropped what might be the most outrageous car commercial of the year—a full-throttle, edge-of-your-seat ride through a post-apocalyptic Australia overrun with zombies. And the star of the show? The Kia EV9.

Surviving the Undead—Kia Style

Produced by Innocean Australia, the new campaign takes a bold, unconventional approach to marketing EVs, proving once and for all that silence is survival when navigating a zombie-infested wasteland.

Any zombie fan knows the golden rule: don’t make a sound. In this high-octane ad, actor Luke Arnold (best known for his role as Michael Hutchence in INXS: Never Tear Us Apart) plays a survivor who uses the whisper-quiet performance of the Kia EV9 to slip past hordes of the undead unnoticed. The EV9 glides silently through the chaos, dodging zombies while showcasing its ultra-modern design and cutting-edge EV tech.

A-List Talent and an Apocalypse to Remember

This is not just another EV commercial—this is a cinematic spectacle. Directed by French filmmaker François Rousselet, known for his work with A$AP Rocky, The Rolling Stones, and John Lewis Christmas ads, the production value is blockbuster-level.

And it doesn’t stop there. The campaign features a star-studded cast including:

  • Luke Arnold as the fearless driver
  • Tess Haubrich (Spiderhead) adding serious intensity
  • Chloe Zuel (Hamilton) bringing a fresh dynamic
  • A surprise guest appearance by Jamie Durie—as a ‘zombie tradie’ (yes, really!)

Why This Ad Is a Game-Changer for EV Marketing

While most EV commercials focus on sustainability, range, and futuristic tech, Kia has flipped the script, making EVs look undeniably cool. This ad isn’t just about selling a car—it’s about shifting the entire narrative around electric vehicles:

  • Stealth Mode: The ad highlights how the EV9’s near-silent operation gives it a tactical advantage—whether you’re sneaking past zombies or just enjoying a quiet ride.
  • Power Meets Efficiency: Kia’s long-range battery ensures the protagonist can outlast the apocalypse without needing frequent stops.
  • Pop Culture Relevance: By tapping into the zombie genre, Kia reaches a massive audience that might not have considered an EV before.

Could Kia’s EV9 Be the Ultimate Survival Vehicle?

Let’s be honest—if an actual zombie outbreak ever happened, you’d probably want something big, durable, and stealthy. The EV9 checks all the boxes:

  • All-electric power (No gas stops = fewer risks)
  • Ultra-quiet driving (Sneak past the undead)
  • Advanced safety tech (For both zombies and real-life hazards)
  • Plenty of space (Because you’re going to need supplies!)

The Internet Reacts: Is This the Best Car Ad Ever?

Within hours of its release, Kia’s zombie-themed EV9 ad blew up on social media, with fans calling it:

  • “The most creative EV commercial ever made”
  • “Like a full-on Hollywood trailer”
  • “Proof that EVs can be badass”

But beyond the entertainment factor, this ad is also a brilliant marketing move. It’s breaking through the EV skepticism barrier, proving that electric doesn’t have to mean boring.

Final Thoughts: Kia Just Set a New Standard

While many automakers are still playing it safe with their EV messaging, Kia has just rewritten the rulebook. This campaign is not only gaining massive traction online, but it’s also reshaping how people view EVs.

With Hollywood-style production, an epic storyline, and a clever way to showcase the advantages of electric driving, Kia has delivered what could easily be the most talked-about ad of 2025.

The big question now: Will other car brands follow suit?

Disclaimer: The details and specifications mentioned in this blog about the vehicle or its variants are based on current information and release speculations. Availability, features, and pricing may vary and are subject to change without notice. This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an offer or guarantee of availability. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, please get in touch with us.