Hot on the heels of the Hyundai’s Ioniq 5, Kia has revealed pictures of its first fully electric vehicle — the EV6.
The battery electric vehicle (BEV), which shares a platform with the Ioniq 5, is due to make its world premiere later this month.
A product of Kia’s new design philosophy — Opposites United — inspiration for the design is apparently drawn from the contrasts found in nature and humanity.
At the centre of the design philosophy is a new visual identity evoking positive forces and natural energy, with contrasting combinations of sharp stylish elements and sculptural shapes.
The new design philosophy embodies Kia’s shifting focus towards electrification.
How do they come up with this stuff?
EV6 boasts a distinctive crossover-inspired design, based on the brand’s new Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP).
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 lights 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 optimisation 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 realise 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.
EV6 is a collaborative effort between all three studios in Kia’s global design network — Namyang (Korea), Frankfurt (Germany), and Irvine (United States).
A distinct product of the EV era, the interior design is liberated by Kia’s dedicated E-GMP platform, which offers increased space compared to previous Kia EVs based on existing model architecture.
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 hi-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 centre of the car, it displays an instrument cluster in front of the driver, and infotainment and navigation above the centre 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.
“EV6, as the first dedicated Kia EV, is a showcase of human-centred, progressive design and electrified power,”
“We strongly believe EV6 is a compelling and relevant model for the new EV market,” Senior Vice President and Head of Global Design Centre, Karim Habib, said.
“With EV6 we aimed to create a distinctive, impactful design by using a combination of sophisticated, high-tech features on pure and rich volumes, while providing a unique space as a futuristic EV.
“We want our products to deliver an instinctive and natural experience that improves the daily lives of our customers.”
EV6 will make its world premiere in March 2021 during a special online event.
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