Unveiled at Kia’s EV Day event in Seoul this week, the EV4 Concept is one of two new vehicles seen for the very first time from the Korean automaker – the EV3 Concept was the other. Much like the Concept EV3, the Concept EV4’s exterior appearance is likely to carry on into production with minimal changes to the design.
It follows the same complex approach to surfaces as exhibited across Kia’s electric range, but adds a sleeker silhouette with a low snout up front.
The interior of the Concept EV4 follows the path set out by the Concept EV3, incorporating new materials into its construction. Instead of mushroom roots, the EV4’s center console uses hemp fibers — a plant that grows quickly and requires minimal resources in its cultivation.
Kia EV4 Concept
Other areas of the Concept EV4’s interior feature 100 percent recycled cotton, dyed naturally using madder roots and walnut shells. Designers also incorporated hand-woven fabric stripes to create a 3D knit finish to the storage area and dashboard, similar to the seat covers found in the EV3.
Kia EV4 Concept
Finally, the Concept EV4 comes with a new ‘Mind Modes’ feature that adjusts ambient lighting and ventilation patterns. For instance, in ‘Perform’ mode, the driver is given all the information needed for their day upfront. In contrast, the ‘Serenity’ mode offers a range of digital graphics to create a more relaxed ambiance.
Kia has confirmed that an EV3 compact SUV will be making an appearance sometime next year as a 2024 model, while we may have to wait a little longer for the unveiling of the production-ready EV4.
Both the EV3 and EV4 will likely ride on the E-GMP architecture, which would enable the crossover and sedan to use the 58 kWh and 77.4 kWh battery pack options from the larger EV6. Prices for both vehicles will range from $35,000 to $50,000.
Source: Kia
