22 March 2023 – Kia Corporation this week unveiled the Concept EV5 at Kia Chinese EV Day. The all-electric SUV concept took centre stage at the event to present the brand’s strategy to establish global leadership in electrification.
Inspired by Kia’s ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy, the Concept EV5 provides a preview of a production all-electric SUV model that will be launched first in China later this year. The Concept EV5 also heralds a new design era for Kia and gives an intriguing glimpse into the aesthetic direction of the brand’s future fully electric models.
“It is my great privilege to proudly announce that Kia is entering the EV market in China. The Kia Concept EV5 marks yet another definitive step on our mission to become a leader in sustainable mobility solutions to provide a better future for all. Kia will enrich our customers’ lifestyles and enable them to pursue personal adventures by setting fresh standards for dynamic and efficient electric driving,” said Ho Sung Song, President and CEO of Kia Corporation.
A new era of EV design for a ‘borderless life’
Kia’s ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy, which celebrates the creative tension formed from the fusion of often seemingly contrasting visual influences of nature and modernity, has galvanized Kia’s design team in the delivery of the Concept EV5’s striking aesthetics. In particular, the ‘Bold for Nature’ pillar of the philosophy has influenced the form and stance of the Concept EV5, creating a unique SUV to support those pursuing a ‘borderless life’ where there is no boundary between their enjoyment and appreciation of nature and the city.
“The Kia Concept EV5 takes influence from the contrast and complementarity of natural landscapes and man-made architecture. It is designed to inspire our customers on every journey, while providing sustainable and environmentally responsible solutions. Created for those who seek inventive new ideas, the SUV brings together emotional form language with innovative, user-focused interior architecture,” explained Karim Habib, Executive Vice President, and Head of Kia Global Design Centre.
The Concept EV5 clearly exudes a progressive look from all angles. However, there is no doubting the vehicle’s authenticity and identity as a member of the Kia family. At the front, a new form of Digital Tiger Face projects cleanness and dignity, strength and robustness in equal measure while paying subtle homage to the famous Kia Tiger Nose grille. The confident new design is integrated with Kia’s Star Map signature lighting technology, which introduces the concept of a constellation connecting stars to a clean face.
The futuristic flowing pattern provided by the digital lighting extends down the side of the Concept EV5, further confirming its status as a pure EV. The serene sense of strength exuding from the SUV’s sculpted lines, square, fenders and powerful stance is amplified by a paintwork finish inspired by a rich, formidable hue found in nature – Iceberg matte green. Striking 21-inch wheels and an aerodynamic-enhancing roof spoiler complete the picture.
A space of coexistence blurring boundaries between the interior and outdoors
While Kia’s designers have taken inspiration from nature to create the design of the Concept EV5, in turn, they have equipped the SUV with intuitive features to give occupants greater freedom to interact with and appreciate the great outdoors. The brand’s ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy pillar ‘Bold for Nature’ has also been a key influencing factor.
The completely flat floor and the generous space found within the cabin create a ‘space of coexistence,’ where nature, people and technology can come together in harmony. Combined with the design themes of Healing, Caring and Re-Charging, the interior of the Concept EV5 provides the perfect environment for occupants to relax.
The interior colour palette brings calmness and purity, while the centre fascia emphasizes the philosophy of ‘Bold for Nature’ through the application of contrasting materials, while the large, wide panoramic display provides greater levels of content for occupants to enjoy.
The Concept EV5 achieves the boundless design that blurs the boundaries between outdoor and indoor spaces. Innovative swivel seats enable occupants to sit in tranquillity, and, depending on where they have parked, enjoy uninterrupted views of the scenery around them. As darkness falls, the wide, full-length panoramic sunroof, which also acts as solar panels, provides the perfect opportunity for occupants to enjoy the stars as they emerge in the sky above. The advanced bridge lighting technology within the SUV can be adjusted to suit the needs and reflect the moods of the occupants.
In line with Kia’s determination to build its cars using methodologies and materials more in harmony with nature, a wide suite of sustainable materials is used throughout the cabin of the Concept EV5. To implement the brand’s sustainable development strategy, various sustainable items are deployed, including plant-based materials like seaweed extract and upcycled PET bottles on the seats, doors, dashboard, and headliner, setting new standards of sustainability without the use of animal leather.
Market introduction
The production model of the EV5 will be released first in the Chinese market later this year. Details regarding any future plans for the other global markets will be made in due course.
