Kia shows off EV6 ahead of full launch

Kia today released images of the EV6, its first pure EV, prior to its imminent global debut. It is the result of a collaborative effort between Namyang (Korea), Frankfurt (Germany), and Irvine (California, US) design studios.

The vehicle is the first to be released under the company’s new design philosophy ‘Opposites United’. This takes inspiration from contrasts in nature and humanity.

The EV6 is crossover like, and is underpinned by the Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP). At the front, 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 lamps also include a ‘sequential’ dynamic light pattern. Below this, an air intake gives added width to the front of the car. The air is channeled through and under the car’s flat floor for optimum aerodynamics.

In profile EV6 resembles a sleek crossover shape. This contrasts with sharp lines to create a sense of tension in the design. A raked windshield provides dynamism while a character line along the bottom of the doors curves upwards towards the rear wheel arches, for an elongated look.

To enhance aeros, the rear features a sloping C-pillar and a prominent roof spoiler that channels air downwards to a lower spoiler sitting atop the car’s rear light cluster.

Interior design is freed from conventional restraints, with increased space thanks to the E-GMP architecture. At its heart is a high-tech curved high-definition audio visual and navigation (AVN) screen. The form of the wide curved screen and the slim dashboard are said to impart an open feel within.

The screen extends from the steering wheel across to the centre of the car, and includes an instrument cluster in front of the driver, and infotainment and navigation above the centre console. A minimal number of physical buttons offers an uncluttered driving experience. Passengers control HVAC settings using haptic ‘buttons’ below the main screen and from there the dashboard slopes away, creating a sense of space and openness.

The seats are slim, lightweight and contemporary, clad in modern robust fabrics made from recycled plastics.

Karim Habib, Senior Vice President and Head of Global Design Center commented “We strongly believe 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…”

“We want our products to deliver an instinctive and natural experience that improves the daily lives of our customers. We want to create original, inventive, and exciting electric vehicles,” he added.

EV6 will be launched to the motoring world shortly during an online event.