Kia previews EV6, explains new 'Opposites United' design concept

MANILA: Kia Corporation unveiled the first images of the interior and exterior of the EV6 last March 14, ahead of the vehicle’s global debut, which will be held online soon.

EV6, the first dedicated battery electric vehicle (BEV), was developed under the new design philosophy of the brand, “Opposites United,” which is influenced by the contrasts inherent in humanity and nature and reflects the changing focus of Kia towards electrification. 

A new visual identity exhibiting natural energy and positive forces, with opposing combinations of sculptural forms and crisp, trendy elements, is the core of the design concept.

The EV6 takes pride in a unique crossover-inspired design based on the new Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) of Kia. 

Senior Vice President and Head of Global Design Center Karim Habib explained, “EV6, as the first dedicated Kia EV, is a showcase of human-centered, progressive design and electrified power. We strongly believe the EV6 is a compelling and relevant model for the new EV market. 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.”

EV6 is the outcome of an initiative among three studios that belong to the international design network of Kia in Irvine (California, USA), Frankfurt (Germany), and Namyang (Korea).

All future Kia models will also be under the “Opposites United” design concept, which has five core design foundations, “Tension for Serenity,” “Technology for Life,” “Power to Progress,” “Joy for Reason,” and “Bold for Nature.”

The “Tension for Serenity” pillar conveys tension between creative contrasts and opposing forces and brings remarkable design philosophies using crisp, highly advanced details to generate surface tension and achieve a coherent, future-oriented design objective.

The “Technology for Life” pillar promotes the utilization of modern technologies and advancements to promote positive connections between machines and humans. The upcoming vehicles of Kia will embrace a next-generation in-car user experience (UX) through innovation, technology, and design in its atmosphere, in-car connectivity, and lighting to aid customers in engaging with their vehicles. 

Meanwhile, “Bold for Nature” is inspired by interactions with nature and the proportions, shapes, and details seen in both the human and natural worlds. This design cornerstone generates organic but technical finishes for the interior of vehicles. Exterior designs are defined by a combination of simple and clear lines with bold and continuously modifiable surfaces.

The “Joy for Reason” pillar is concerned with the ambience and feel of the upcoming vehicles of the brand. Future designs can combine the rational and emotional aspects, resulting in vehicles that have an impact on the mood of passengers through inspiration and relaxation.

Finally, “Power to Progress” builds on the existing design capabilities of Kia. The layouts and designs of the brand’s future products will keep evolving through the development of expertise and skills acquired throughout the recent period of Kia’s design-led evolution. 

The exterior design of EV6 is poised as a strong representation of the “Power to Progress” pillar.

At the front of the vehicle, distinct daytime running lights exhibit a stylish and contemporary look. They form a portion of the vehicle’s “Digital Tiger Face,” a design advancement that conveys the spirit of the brand’s “Tiger Nose Grille” for the electrified age.

The design of the lamps entail a “sequential” dynamic light pattern. A low air intake below this visually broadens the front part of the vehicle, emphasizing its high-tech profile. The air is delivered across and under the vehicle’s flat floor for maximum aerodynamics as part of the air-flow optimization from the front.

The side profile features a new, streamlined, and aerodynamic profile that exhibits a crossover-inspired design aesthetic. This contrasts with high-tech specifications and crisp lines to produce a feeling of tension in the design of the car.

A swept-back windshield offers purpose and dynamism, while prominent rear haunches contribute volume. A character line runs throughout the bottom of the doors, which curves upward towards the rear wheel arches, thereby resulting in an elongated vehicle profile.

The rear has a sloping C-pillar with an integrated black glossy insert that visually broadens the window glass, which was designed partly to attain optimum aerodynamic efficiency. A prominent roof spoiler above this channels air down into a raised lower spoiler that lies atop the distinct rear light cluster of the vehicle.

The interior design profile of the EV6, which is inspired by the E-GMP platform of Kia, displays an advanced utilization of space that generates a distinct driving and spatial experience.

One of the noticeable features of the new interior is a smooth, cutting-edge curved high-definition audio visual and navigation (AVN) screen. The simple form language of the slim dashboard and broad curved screen provide the space with an open vibe. 

It extends from the steering wheel across tp the middle part of the vehicle and showcases an instrument cluster in front of the driver, with navigation and infotainment above the center console. The width of the screen generates an immersive feel for the driver, while a limited number of physical buttons provide a relaxing and clutter-free driving experience.

Beneath the AVN screen, passengers can control HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning) settings through the use of haptic “buttons.”

Underneath the panel, the dashboard has the capability to slope away to the front portion of the vehicle. This produces a sense of openness and space for the front-seat passengers.

The seats are modern, lightweight, and slim, and clad in contemporary, physically impressive, and durable fabrics made through the use of recycled plastics, which generate increased spaciousness in the car’s interior.

More information regarding the “Opposites United” design concept can be seen in the Kia design manifesto film here.

Photos from Kia

Also read: Kia unveils official images of EV6, new naming approach for electric vehicles