Kia unveils two adventurous EV concepts
Kia got plenty of attention at this year's SEMA show in Las Vegas. The company showed up with two innovative electric vehicle concepts designed to take adventure to new heights.
Kia's EV9 received a bold makeover for SEMA. Dubbed the ADVNTR, this concept looks ready to tackle any terrain. It comes with a three-inch lift compared to the standard EV9, giving it greater ground clearance. The ADVNTR also gets off-road tires, front recovery hooks, plenty of under-body protection, a custom roof rack, and dual off-road light bars.
The EV9 ADVNTR's roof rack is ready to deal with luggage containers and even roof tents, hinting at the possibility of Kia offering a range of accessories for outdoor enthusiasts. While the concept doesn't show the tent itself, the suggestion alone has sparked excitement among great outdoors fans.
The EV9 ADVNTR wasn't the only star of Kia's SEMA showcase. The company also unveiled the PV5 WKNDR concept, an off-road-ready van based on Kia's Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBV) modular architecture.
The WKNDR has impressive off-road features, including large all-terrain tires, a short wheelbase for improved maneuverability, and recovery hooks for tackling challenging trails. Its utilitarian interior is designed with van life in mind, featuring a swiveling passenger seat that converts into a lounge-style recliner, a dining table, a roof-mounted cargo net, and a modular rack system.
Kia has also fitted the WKNDR with an awning to provide shade, a pop-up rear window to enhance ventilation, and mounting points that can take tools like shovels, all ready for off-grid adventures.
The WKNDR concept's potential for production hinges on Kia's ability to navigate the challenges of importing commercial vehicles into North America. A 25% tariff on such imports is steep, but if Kia can manufacture it within the US, the WKNDR could become a reality.
With the EV9 ADVNTR and PV5 WKNDR concepts, Kia hopes to bank on the growing demand for electric vehicles that can support adventurous lifestyles. Both concepts show us a promising future for electric off-roading and van life, and it'll be interesting to see if they can become a reality.
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