“Designing The Next Chapter”

As the world continues to shift and evolve, so does design and the way we build cars. That process, which may present new challenges, ushers in even more exciting opportunities for innovation. While we continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible, we must not forget to remain conscious of not only what we design, but how we design. At Kia, a new chapter is unfolding, starting with the launch of its first, dedicated, all-electric vehicle, the EV6. Leading the charge is Tom Kearns, Chief Designer, Kia Design Center America, who believes electrification opens up new possibilities for design. Harnessing electricity is, of course, better for the environment. But, the use of more sustainable manufacturing techniques is also key. Kia’s EVs step up to the challenge featuring parts built with over 100 recycled PET bottles, 100% LED lighting, and seats made exclusively of vegan leather. Sustainability is a priority, and Kearns believes the steps taken today to enhance the design and manufacturing processes will undoubtedly determine the impact we leave on the world of tomorrow. 

With this new frontier comes a new design philosophy from Kia – Opposites United. A new approach to vehicle design that fuses together unexpected and contrasting forms to create something different, as can be seen in the EV6, the first vehicle to be created under this new ethos. With sleek, aircraft-inspired shapes on an exterior that can be considered part-coupe and part-SUV, it blurs the lines. Put simply, it pushes our expectations of what an electric vehicle can be.

Kia’s EV program is charging forward and is committed to producing seven new electric vehicles by 2026. The newest concept car, Concept EV9, continues this artful collision of shape and form with a strikingly bold, full-size SUV, where softer, rounder shapes are married with more angular forms that meet at the grille, giving it presence and distinctiveness. So, as designs for EVs evolve, Kia’s new tagline Movement That Inspires will certainly shine through in the models to come and show that inspiration really does run through the company.