Kia’s EV range is the brand’s 100% electric models. The Korean manufacturer wanted to give it its own visual identity, without this meaning having three identical models in different sizes, far from it.
The E-GMP platform on which the Kia EV3, EV6 and EV9 are based allows different interpretations depending on the customer to whom each vehicle is aimed. They have common elements since a lot of thought has gone into optimizing their aerodynamics thanks to virtual fluid dynamics simulation models and the wind tunnel at the Namyang research and development center.
The aim is to ensure that all the pieces fit perfectly so that the air flow passes without problems and no vortices are produced. In addition, all three have completely faired underbody and wheels that work aligned with the air flow that runs through the entire body. Also active air flaps, which open if cooling is required and close when not, as well as flush door handles. And all this, with characteristics that make them unique:
Kia EV6
The Kia EV6 was the first vehicle designed under the design philosophy Opposites United inspired by contrasts of nature and humanity. For Karim Habib, Executive Vice President and Director of the Kia Global Design Center, “with the EV6 we aimed to create a distinctive and impactful design by combining sophisticated and high-tech features in pure and rich volumes, while creating an electric with the objective of defining our future. In this video we analyze it in depth:
The side of the EV6 shows a modern and aerodynamic aesthetic, inspired by a crossover. A character line runs along the bottom of the doors, curving towards the wheel arches and links to the rear light clusters. This way the car looks longer than it is.
The EV6 was the first Kia model to reinterpret the Tiger Facewith daytime running lights with a sequential light pattern. In the lower area, a low air intake visually expands the front. For its part, at the rear, the inclined C-pillar or the roof spoiler stands out, which in addition to providing aerodynamic load and creates an air flow that cleans the rear window.
The EV6 is available in nine shades, eight bright, Yacht Blue, Gravity Blue, Runway Red, Steel Grey, Glacier, Snow White Pearl, Interstellar Gray and Aurora Black Pearl; and a mate, Moonscape.
Kia EV9
For its part, the Kia EV9 seeks more forcefulness. It says it draws inspiration from the “Boldness by Nature” design pillar of Opposites United and pays tribute to the perfection of the natural environment. In the words of Sang-hyeok Han, “The wheels and angular steps create the feeling of a rock in nature, and the smooth and connected surface of the body conveys a relaxed sense of space that boldly harmonizes with nature. The volume of the rock-hard fender creates the image of a confident SUV.” We analyze it in this video in which we compare it with another large SUV from the brand, the Kia Sorento:
The front of the EV9 brought with it an evolution of the Digital Tiger Facewith vertical LED optical groups and, in the case of the GT-line version (see test), a small cubic projector. “The front lighting was inspired by the constellations of the night sky and the linear beauty of nature,” says Sang-hyeok Han. They call the lighting system Star Map (star map) where the line connecting the brightest star (high beam) with the smaller stars (daytime running lights) forms a beacon.
The EV9 is sold in seven colors, five with a glossy finish, Snow White Pearl, Aurora Black Pearl, Flare Red, Pebble Gray and Iceberg Green; while the color Ocean Blueinherited from the Concept EV9, can be matte or glossy.
Kia EV3
The Kia EV3, according to Karim Habib, “perfectly embodies our design philosophy: compact exterior that surrounds an open interior space. Its futuristic aesthetic is enhanced by the choice of bold colors. Inside, the spacious cabin and the incorporation of new organic materials provide energy and joy.”
Based on the theme “Joy from reason”, one of the five attributes of philosophy Opposites Unitedstands out for its geometric body, dynamic roof line and 19-inch wheels that convey a futuristic image. The combination of a spacious cabin and a low roofline creates an elegant silhouette, with a robust rear typical of SUVs. We analyze it in this video:
The EV3 brings the idea of a lighting signature Star Map of the brand. Vertical daytime running lights emphasize the Tiger Face image. As in the EV9, the body is shaped like a boat’s tail and tapers towards the rear. The bottom of the bumper is sloped to prevent turbulence and the angular shape of the rear corners also helps with aerodynamic performance.
Of the nine body colors available, two of them have been created exclusively for the new model: Aventurine Green and Terracotta.
