KIA Motors has surprised the automotive world again with a brand new electric vehicle that looks showroom ready. Revealed just a day ago after being teased for 6 days, these are the first images of the exterior and interior design of the Kia EV6. It is also Kia’s first dedicated battery electric vehicle (BEV).
Coming just weeks after the Hyundai IONIQ 5 was unveiled (Hyundai Motor owns Kia Motors) this new Kia electric vehicle ‘looks’ and also ‘sounds’ (details shared below) good enough to surpass public interest for the IONIQ 5.
Platform
Boasting a distinctive crossover-inspired design and based on the brand's new Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), EV6 is Kia's first dedicated BEV to be influenced by the new design philosophy, which embodies Kia's shifting focus towards electrification.
Opposites united
This is a design philosophy that will be embraced for all future Kia vehicles. The Opposites United design philosophy makes its debut on Kia EV6, and will inform the design of all future Kia models. The philosophy is based on five key design pillars: 'Bold for Nature', 'Joy for Reason', 'Power to Progress', 'Technology for Life', and 'Tension for Serenity'.
Exterior design
The exterior design of Kia EV6 is a powerful representation of 'Power to Progress'. An evolution of the brand's strengths in design, EV6 is a culmination of skills and expertise collected throughout Kia's design-led transformation; investigating the future and beyond.
At the front, characteristic daytime running lights display a sleek, modern appearance. They form part of the car's 'Digital Tiger Face', a design progression evoking the spirit of Kia's 'Tiger Nose Grille' for the electrified era. The design of the lamps also includes a 'sequential' dynamic light pattern. Below this, a low air intake visually widens the front of the car, accentuating its high-tech image. Part of the optimization of air flow from the front, the air is channeled through and under the car's flat floor for optimum aerodynamics.
The side profile displays a crossover-inspired design aesthetic, which is modern, sleek and aerodynamic. This contrasts with sharp lines and high-tech details to create a sense of tension in the design. A swept-back windshield provides dynamism and purpose, while bold rear haunches add volume. A character line runs along the bottom of the doors curving upwards towards the rear wheel arches, visually elongating the profile of the car.
Designed in part to realize ultimate aerodynamic performance, the rear displays a sloping rear C-pillar with an integrated black glossy insert which visually widens the window glass. Above this sits a prominent roof spoiler that channels air downwards towards a raised lower spoiler which sits atop the car's unique rear light cluster.
This Kia EV6 is the result of a collaborative effort between all three studios in Kia's global design network in Namyang (Korea), Frankfurt (Germany), and Irvine (California, US).
Interior design
The EV6's interior design profiles an innovative use of space, creating a unique spatial and driving experience.
One of the most striking elements of the new interior is a seamless high-tech curved high-definition audio visual and navigation (AVN) screen. The simple form language of the wide curved screen and the slim dashboard give the space an open feel. Extending from the steering wheel across to the center of the car, it displays an instrument cluster in front of the driver, and infotainment and navigation above the center console.
The width of the screen creates an immersive experience for the driver, while a minimal number of physical buttons offer an uncluttered and soothing driving experience.
Underneath the AVN screen, passengers control HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) settings by using haptic 'buttons', while below this panel, the dashboard slopes away towards the front of the car, creating a sense of space and openness for the front-seat passengers.
The seats are slim, lightweight and contemporary, and clad in modern, visually interesting and robust fabrics created using recycled plastics, which create yet greater openness in the cabin.
Technical details
Kia has not yet shared the technical details of this EV as a detailed reveal will be in just a few days time with the all important information on the battery pack, charging and possible driving range. Its selling price will have to be highly competitive to challenge what the big name Chinese EV brands are bringing to market. Brands like BYD, Nio and Polestar for example. – The Vibes, March 16, 2021
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