Tag Archives: kia

Kia unveils off-road capable EV concepts high on customization and spirit of adventure

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This year’s Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show in Las Vegas saw its share of plug-in concepts, and Kia outshone them all. Known to be one of the biggest automotive ensembles when it comes to trending aftermarket modifications, the show saw the unveiling of the KIA Design Center America (KDCA) designed pair of all-electric concepts tailored for off-road adventures.

One of them is the EV9 ADVNTR Concept SUV based on Kia’s three-row electric EV9 SUV that debuted last year. This one looks much closer to a production-ready version, has to be said. The second one is the PV5 WKNDR concept EV Van built on the brand’s Purpose Beyond Vehicles more commonly known as PBVs. According to the design team, these two custom lifestyle vehicles “intrinsically blend form and function into machines designed for responsible engagement with nature.” Although none of these concepts is slated for a production run yet, we can expect more to transpire in a couple of year’s time.

Designer: Kia

The beefed-up variant of the EV9 SUV is 3 inches higher and comes with adventure and off-roading grade inclusions such as an improved roof rack for hauling adventure gear or pitching a bespoke roof-mounted tent, reinforced rocker panels for underbody protection, rugged tires for maximum traction, custom front and rear facias for assistance in approach and departure angles. When it’s time to set up camp for the night, the vehicle is your comfy mobile campsite.

PV5 WKNDR is more oriented towards longer stays away from home. The EV is well-equipped for wild overlanding adventures away from habitation. The vehicle can make your unknown adventure possible for weeks or even months in a single go. Kia labels the modular interior of the WKNDR as a Swiss army knife on wheels. The off-road capable vehicle comes with a pop-up camper, mobile kitchen, air compressor for filling up tires or inflating mattress, front-mounted winch, and loads of innovative storage solutions to stash all your essentials. One that we like in particular is the kitchen-style slide-out system that stores loads of things without taking up any interior space. It also comes with solar panels on top and innovative hydro turbine wheels to recharge the batteries.

 

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Kia reincarnates the iconic old school Pride as a powerful electric car restomod we love

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The gas-powered Kia Pride was a successful subcompact hatchback from the 90s that was a rebatched Ford Festiva. For the 80th anniversary of the brand’s business in the UK, they have restored the 1996 Pride 1.3 LX into an all-electric restomod. This one-off electrified reincarnation of the classic family car gets a stellar EV powertrain conversion courtesy of a British manufacturer.

According to Kia, the electric hot hatch is one of the most powerful of its kind, and they playfully call it a “true socket rocket.”  All the combustion components have been replaced with a powerful EV powertrain and the only components retained from the original are the five-speed manual transmission and drive shafts. This brings maximum drivable engagement for motorheads who care.

Designer: Kia

The renewed avatar of the Pride boasts 107 bhp (80kW) and 173 lb-ft of torque, almost double the power of its older counterpart. On the inside, the electric motor, twin 10 kWh battery packs, and a charging port replace the older gas-powered engine, fuel tank and filler neck. All these core modifications lead to an acceleration of 0 to 62 mph in 8 seconds flat. Kia assures that the 20 kWh battery pack can stretch a total mileage of 120 miles on a single full charge in the Evo mode which is good enough for a city commuter like this one. In this drive configuration the engine shifts to producing 60 bhp with a maximum torque of 11 Nm. Talking of which, the Pride EV also has two other modes – Auto and Sport – the latter offering a max power output of 107 bhp and 173 lb-ft torque.

Sadly, this restomod version is going to be a one-off and not up for sale anytime in the future. That said Kia is launching many EVs like the latest EV3 as a part of the plan to have 15 electric vehicles by 2027. Nine of these will be available for sale in the UK.

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Unveiling Kia PV5 and PV7: The Future of Electric Urban Mobility and Logistics

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Kia’s unveiling of the Concept PV5 and PV7 marks a major milestone in electric vehicle development, targeting a 2025 release. These models blend modern aesthetics with practical design, catering to diverse urban transport and logistics needs. The PV5 and PV7 are designed with both scalability and versatility in mind, making them perfect for various business applications, from passenger transportation to cargo delivery.

Designer: KIA

The PV5’s exterior features sleek, aerodynamic lines and a striking two-tone color scheme that conveys a futuristic and professional look. Large, seamless windows enhance visibility and contribute to the high-tech aesthetic, while the minimalist front design with integrated LED headlights adds a touch of sophistication. The vehicle is available in three body types: Basic (Passenger), Van (Delivery), and Chassis Cab, providing flexibility for businesses that require different configurations. The Basic model prioritizes comfort and space, featuring wide double doors and a flat floor to maximize interior room. It is ideal for urban passenger transport, including taxis and ride-sharing services.

KIA Concept PV5-R

Inside, the PV5 offers a spacious and innovative environment. Ergonomic seats can be configured in multiple ways to meet various needs, and they fold flat to provide additional storage space when necessary. The minimalist dashboard has a digital display that integrates all essential functions, offering the driver a streamlined and efficient interface. Sustainable materials used throughout the interior contribute to a luxurious feel and reflect Kia’s commitment to eco-friendly design. The large touchscreen display in the center console ensures easy access to navigation, entertainment, and vehicle settings, enhancing the connected driving experience. The flat floor design of the electric platform further enhances versatility and space efficiency, making it easier for passengers with mobility issues or those carrying heavy cargo to enter and exit the vehicle.

Kia Concept PV5 Basic (Passenger)

The PV5’s Van (Delivery) model is tailored for the transportation of small and medium-sized cargo, featuring ample storage space and wide rear doors for easy access. This model is particularly suited for service industries and delivery businesses, offering a reliable and efficient solution for urban logistics. The Chassis Cab variant offers maximum flexibility, allowing businesses to customize the vehicle for specific needs, such as mobile workshops or specialized service vehicles.

The PV7, a larger sibling in Kia’s PBV lineup, extends these innovations with greater cargo space and advanced features tailored for more extensive transport needs. Both models reflect Kia’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of electric vehicle design, offering practical solutions for various commercial uses. The PV7 builds on the versatility of the PV5, providing more room and possibly additional configurations to meet diverse business demands.

Kia Concept PV5 Van Interior

Kia Concept PV7 is Kia’s second PBV and boasts the largest cargo space in the lineup.

Kia’s PV5 and PV7 concepts also hint at future advancements with the planned PV5-R model, incorporating autonomous driving technology. This innovation promises to enhance the appeal of PV5 and PV7 across various industries, offering a modern and efficient solution for urban mobility.

Kia Concept PV5 Basic (Passenger) is a perfect solution for urban passenger transportation such as taxis, ride hailing/sharing, and vehicles for people with disabilities.

Overall, Kia’s PV5 and PV7 concepts represent a significant step forward in the electric vehicle market. Their versatile designs, scalability, and focus on passenger comfort and cargo space position them to meet the diverse needs of businesses and individuals. The anticipated 2025 release marks an exciting milestone for Kia as it continues to innovate and lead in the electric vehicle sector.

Kia Concept PV7 Cargo Delivery & Multi Van

 

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Kia EV3: The Futuristic Subcompact Crossover Set to Electrify the EV Market

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Kia has unveiled the EV3, a subcompact crossover that brings a new level of sophistication and technology to the electric vehicle market. As the latest addition to Kia’s rapidly expanding EV lineup, the EV3 leverages the innovative features of the flagship EV9 SUV while introducing them to a more compact and accessible form. By combining a sleek, modern design with advanced technology and impressive range capabilities, the EV3 is poised to set new standards in the subcompact crossover segment and drive mass adoption of electric vehicles.

Designer: KIA

Exterior Design: A Bold and Progressive Statement

The EV3 embodies Kia’s ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy, blending the natural and the modern into a harmonious whole. This philosophy is evident in the EV3’s confident and assertive presence. The front end features vertical headlamps at the extremes, creating a wide and bold stance. The grille-less design and thin LED daytime running lights, known as Star Map, add to its futuristic appeal. This clean and uncluttered front end not only looks modern but also emphasizes the EV3’s electric nature.

Kia’s reinterpretation of the iconic Tiger Face design incorporates the latest Star Map signature lighting concept. The vertical Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) enhance the Tiger Face design, giving the EV3 a distinctive and recognizable look. These elements, combined with the black accents around the wheel arches and blacked-out pillars, contribute to the floating roof effect, enhancing the vehicle’s modern aesthetic.

From the side, the EV3 showcases a sleek roofline that slopes gently into a hatchback-style tailgate. This design, paired with muscular wheel arches and dynamic lines, gives the EV3 a sporty and agile look. The long, smooth roofline adds to the vehicle’s aerodynamics and provides a spacious interior. The overall profile conveys strength and elegance, making the EV3 a compelling choice in the subcompact crossover segment.

The EV3’s rear design continues this high-tech theme. Thick black trim lines emphasize the connection between the sturdy C-pillars and the dynamic roofline, adding to the vehicle’s robust appearance. The geometric rear lamps seamlessly integrate with the rear glass, creating a sleek and modern tailgate design. Inspired by the front’s Tiger Face Star Map lighting, the rear lights add a futuristic touch that ties the whole design together.

Interior Design: Comfort and Functionality

Step inside the EV3, and you’re greeted by an interior designed to maximize space and comfort. The cabin is spacious enough to comfortably accommodate five passengers, with a focus on creating a living room-like atmosphere. The elegant center console features a sliding table and storage area, perfect for drinks, snacks, and small backpacks. When parked, the table can hold personal electronics like laptops and tablets, turning the car into a mobile office or entertainment space.

Kia has emphasized comfort with multi-adjustable ambient lighting and ultra-comfortable seats in fold-back relaxation mode. These features and the spacious interior make the EV3 an ideal vehicle for long journeys or just relaxing while charging. The EV3 offers a 25-liter frunk and a 460-liter rear load capacity, the largest in its class. The adjustable two-tier luggage board provides over 140mm of load height flexibility, catering to various needs, from daily commutes to family camping trips.

A big feature of the interior is the nearly 30-inch widescreen display, which includes a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a five-inch air-conditioning panel, and another 12.3-inch AVN display. This integrated screen provides clear and intuitive information to the driver while extending to the center of the dashboard, giving the front-seat passenger access to entertainment and navigation features. Controls for drive modes, cruise control, and other functions are conveniently located on the steering wheel, ensuring ease of use.

Advanced Technology and Sustainability

The EV3 is packed with advanced technology that enhances both functionality and sustainability. The vehicle-to-load (V2L) function allows the battery to power external devices, such as laptops, coffee machines, and small fridges. The infotainment system includes streaming services, arcade games, and Kia’s AI Assistant technology, offering a comprehensive suite of entertainment and functionality. The introduction of the new i-Pedal 3.0 system for one-pedal driving with adjustable regenerative braking further enhances the driving experience, providing more control over energy recuperation.

Sustainability is a key focus for Kia, and the EV3 incorporates various sustainable materials throughout its interior. Recycled fabric is used in the dashboard and door trims, while polyethylene terephthalate (PET), one of the most easily recycled plastics, features in areas such as the seats, headliner, door armrests, garnish, floor mats, and luggage board. This commitment to using recycled materials highlights Kia’s dedication to accelerating sustainability at scale.

The EV3 is powered by Kia’s fourth-generation battery technology, with the Standard model featuring a 58.3kWh battery and the Long Range variant equipped with an 81.4kWh battery. Both models utilize a 150kW/283Nm electric motor, enabling a 0-100km/h acceleration time of 7.5 seconds and a maximum speed of 170km/h. The Long Range model offers an impressive WLTP driving range of up to 600km, addressing common concerns about electric vehicle range.

Future Developments: The EV3 GT

Kia is also developing a high-performance version of the EV3, known as the EV3 GT. Announced by Kia CEO Ho Sung Song, this model is expected to arrive in late 2025 or early 2026 and will offer more power than the standard EV3. Song stated, “By providing groundbreaking design, an industry-leading electric drivetrain, and practical, innovative lifestyle solutions, the EV3 aims to extend Kia’s exceptional EV SUV experience to a wider audience.”

While details about the EV3 GT are limited, it will likely feature a dual-motor setup with a larger battery pack. This variant aims to provide a thrilling driving experience, further broadening the appeal of Kia’s electric vehicle lineup. It will deliver enhanced performance akin to the EV6 GT but tailored for the EV3’s smaller size.

The Kia EV3 will debut in South Korea in July 2024, followed by a European launch later in the year. Although initially, there were uncertainties about its release in the US, Kia has now confirmed that the EV3 will be available in the American market, with an expected launch as early as 2025 or 2026. Pricing is speculated to be below $35,000, potentially closer to $30,000, making the EV3 an attractive option for customers seeking an affordable yet advanced electric vehicle. As the EV3’s release approaches, more details will emerge, solidifying its place in Kia’s electric vehicle strategy. Stay tuned for further updates on this promising new entry in Kia’s expanding lineup of innovative electric vehicles.

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