Kia America made a high-energy return to the 2024 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) Show in Las Vegas, revealing two stunning all-electric concept vehicles, the EV9 “ADVNTR” SUV and PV5 “WKNDR” Van. Developed by the innovative team at Kia Design Center America (KDCA) in Irvine, CA, these concept vehicles showcase a vision for the future where EVs meet rugged, off-road adventure with advanced sustainability, functionality, and style.
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SEMA: A Playground for Innovation
SEMA is renowned for its diverse showcase of automotive ingenuity, from enhanced vehicle performance to advanced accessories. Kia used this platform to unveil its bold vision for the future of electric vehicles (EVs), emphasizing capability and lifestyle utility.
EV9 “ADVNTR” Concept: The Ultimate Adventure SUV
The EV9 “ADVNTR” Concept reimagines Kia’s all-electric 3-row SUV as the ultimate rugged companion for outdoor explorers. This reworked EV9 features a custom 3-inch lift, a reinforced body with distinctive front and rear facias, and heavy-duty rocker panels for a bold, rugged appearance. Complementing this robust design, the EV9 “ADVNTR” is equipped with off-road-ready tires and wheels to handle rough terrains, ensuring optimal performance beyond paved roads.
Designed for maximum versatility, the EV9 “ADVNTR” Concept includes a custom roof rack ideal for carrying everything from camping gear to bespoke roof-mounted tents, perfect for a fully immersive experience in nature. This vehicle represents Kia’s commitment to adventure and adaptability, proving that electric vehicles can take you far beyond the everyday drive.
PV5 “WKNDR” Concept: A Versatile EV Van for the Bold Lifestyle
For those who crave extended weekends in nature, Kia introduced the PV5 “WKNDR” Concept Van, a flexible EV designed for lifestyle expression. Based on Kia’s recently launched Purpose Beyond Vehicles (PBVs) series, the PV5 “WKNDR” features a highly adaptable interior with modular configurations, transforming it into a “Swiss Army knife on wheels.” This unique van is lifted and equipped with off-road tires, enabling drivers to access secluded spots comfortably.
A notable feature of the PV5 “WKNDR” Concept is its “Gear Head” storage system, a first-of-its-kind solution offering off-board, weather-protected storage. This innovation provides easy access to essential gear without crowding the van’s interior, and it can even double as a mobile pantry for on-the-go chefs who want to “Cook with a View.” Equipped with solar panels and hydro turbine wheels, the PV5 “WKNDR” has sustainable power solutions to recharge its battery on the go. For added convenience, an onboard compressor allows for tire pressure adjustments or inflating camping mattresses, embodying the freedom to explore without limits.
Integrating Lifestyle and Organization with “Beyond Organization”
In addition to these groundbreaking EV concepts, Kia showcased a range of active lifestyle accessories under the “Beyond Organization” concept, aimed at reducing the hassle of organizing camping and adventure gear. This modular system provides a “plug and play” solution that enhances setup efficiency, letting enthusiasts focus more on enjoying their trips rather than managing logistics.
Myth-Inspired Custom SUVs for Adventure
Kia also revealed mythologically inspired custom editions of three popular SUV models, showcasing partnerships with top accessory brands to elevate each vehicle’s capability and aesthetic.
- Sportage “THETIS” (Goddess of Water) – Collaborating with Rhino Rack, Kia created the “THETIS” Sportage with a custom wrap featuring white-water rapids, rose gold accents, and XPEL paint protection. This Sportage model, equipped with Toyo Tires and kayak mounts, is an ideal choice for river adventurers, delivering both style and rugged functionality.
- Telluride “ZEUS” (God of Sky & Thunder) – Designed to traverse rough terrains, the “ZEUS” Telluride features a mountain-themed wrap, Fifteen52 wheels with Toyo Tires, and an iKamper tent for overnight outdoor excursions. The SUV includes a Yakima MOD Storage System for organized gear storage and a BORLA exhaust system for an added “thunderous” presence, aligning with the theme of Zeus as the god of thunder.
- Sorento “GAIA” (Goddess of Earth) – The “GAIA” Sorento emphasizes seamless integration with nature through a neutral color palette, gold accents, and off-road wheels. With its Yakima awning, Kicker outdoor soundbar, and Baja Design lights, this Sorento model ensures campers can relax in comfort while exploring off-the-grid landscapes.
A Vision for Kia’s Adventurous Future
Kia’s return to the SEMA Show marks an exciting step in the brand’s journey toward creating versatile, eco-friendly vehicles that embrace adventure. As COO and EVP of Kia America, Steven Center, noted, these vehicles push the boundaries of what a capable, adventure-ready EV can be, highlighting the brand’s dedication to innovation and lifestyle integration.
By blending advanced functionality with sustainable power sources, Kia’s EV concepts set a new standard for adventurous electric vehicles, meeting the needs of today’s eco-conscious explorers while hinting at what the future holds for lifestyle-focused mobility.
Source: Kia
