6 November 2024 — Kia made waves at the 2024 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show in Las Vegas this week, unveiling two bold concept electric vehicles: the EV9 “ADVNTR” SUV and the PV5 “WKNDR” van. Conceived by the Kia Design Centre America team, these innovative EV concepts embody an ambitious vision for adaptable, lifestyle-oriented vehicles that merge off-road capability with sustainability-driven design.
The SEMA Show, known for pushing the envelope with cutting-edge automotive designs, was the perfect stage for Kia’s latest creations. From custom modifications to next-gen concept vehicles, SEMA attracts automotive enthusiasts and industry insiders who relish pioneering concepts and enhancements in performance, style, and technology. This year, Kia’s new EV concepts stood out as a testament to the brand’s commitment to a more versatile, eco-friendly automotive future.
EV9 “ADVNTR” Concept: A Bold Electric SUV for Every Adventure
The EV9 “ADVNTR” concept reimagines Kia’s electric three-row SUV for a rugged outdoor experience. Engineered to explore uncharted terrains, the ADVNTR sports a distinct, rugged look thanks to custom front and rear fascias, as well as reinforced rocker panels designed to handle rough conditions with ease. The EV9 has been lifted by three inches over its standard model, coupled with a custom wheel and tyre setup for off-road capabilities that ensure stability and confidence in challenging environments.
In true adventure style, the EV9 ADVNTR features a custom roof rack designed to accommodate everything from traditional luggage containers to roof-mounted tents, allowing users to transform the SUV into a mobile basecamp. Designed with the spirit of the outdoors in mind, this concept is an embodiment of Kia’s vision for an eco-conscious yet exhilarating lifestyle vehicle that caters to modern adventurers.
PV5 “WKNDR” Concept: The Ultimate Modular Escape Van
Alongside the EV9, Kia introduced the PV5 “WKNDR” van, a flexible and highly capable electric vehicle born from Kia’s Purpose Beyond Vehicles (PBV) line. With a lifted chassis and off-road tyres, the PV5 WKNDR is crafted for the modern-day explorer seeking a versatile, self-sufficient escape pod for nature-bound weekends.
A key highlight of the PV5 WKNDR is its modular interior, which can be customised and adapted to various lifestyles and adventures. Dubbed a “Swiss Army Knife on wheels,” this design includes Kia’s revolutionary “Gear Head” feature—an off-board, weatherproof storage solution for camping or adventure gear, accessible when the van is stationary. This unique storage system maximises interior space and can even transform into a mobile pantry for those looking to “Cook with a View.”
Powered by solar panels and cutting-edge hydro turbine wheels that recharge the vehicle’s batteries, the PV5 WKNDR concept redefines self-sufficiency. An onboard compressor allows for quick tyre pressure adjustments for different terrains or inflating air mattresses for nights under the stars, blending convenience with rugged functionality.
A Glimpse into Kia’s Adventure-Focused Future
“Kia’s rugged and capable utility vehicles have long been known for being versatile, adaptable, and comfortable to suit the needs of a wide range of consumers,” commented Steven Center, COO & EVP of Kia America. “We wanted to ‘level up’ the functionality and capability by developing these concepts that take those legendary attributes to the next level. Our vehicles already help people live their active and adventurous lifestyles, and it was fun to see just how far we could go with these latest concepts.”
With the EV9 ADVNTR and PV5 WKNDR concepts, Kia offers a bold preview of the adventurous, eco-friendly EVs it envisions for tomorrow. As Kia continues to push boundaries at showcases like SEMA, these concepts serve as a reminder that the future of electric vehicles isn’t just about sustainability but about empowering lifestyles defined by freedom, exploration, and innovation.
