Unveiled at Kia’s recent EV Day event in Seoul, the EV4 Concept is a noteworthy addition to the Korean automaker’s lineup, alongside its counterpart, the EV3 Concept. The simultaneous appearance of the production-ready EV5 at the event.
The EV4 Concept’s design closely mirrors the EV6 crossover, but with a lower and slightly more compact profile. It maintains an almost crossover-like ride height, akin to the Toyota Crown hybrid or Polestar 2. Kia also draws comparisons with its retired performance sedan, the Stinger, promising a spiritual successor. Importantly, it distinguishes itself from its cousin, the Ioniq 6, by offering more height and width overall.
The front of the EV4 Concept shares similarities with the EV9 and EV5, featuring tall, narrow, LED-centric headlights and the signature “tiger” grille at the lower end. Despite the low-sloping hood, it manages to offer a frunk, a detail confirmed by Kia. The rear end elegantly tapers to create a true hatchback, reminiscent of the Stinger. In summary, the silhouette echoes the sporty sedan form of the EV6—a design that’s hard not to appreciate.
Kia’s priority in designing the EV4 Concept was to maximize interior space, in line with their other EV offerings. Achieving an almost SUV-like ground clearance allowed designers to unlock greater roominess. It’s not a low sedan like we know them today.” The objective is clear: to redefine sleek and spacious vehicles in the future, transcending mere design considerations.
In a world where sedan sales have been dwindling in favor of crossovers and SUVs, Kia’s commitment to retaining sedan enthusiasts is commendable. With an ambitious goal of achieving nearly 40% of global sales from electric vehicles by 2030, they believe that attracting sedan lovers is crucial. Teck-Koun Kim, Head of Next Design at Kia, emphasizes the allure of the EV4 Concept, stating, “We believe we can attract customers of sedans as well as crossovers because the space inside is much bigger.”
To cater to driving enthusiasts, Kia’s designers have incorporated innovative features into the EV4 Concept. The climate controls are discreetly hidden on a slide-out panel, optimizing space when not in use. Moreover, the car boasts diminutive “pin-style” air vents that efficiently circulate air throughout the cabin. This creative solution addresses the trend of shrinking air vents, caused by the proliferation of larger screens in modern vehicles.
While the sliding climate control console remains somewhat conceptual, the EV4 Concept itself is a confirmed production-bound model. Nevertheless, its arrival in the US is still under consideration. Despite modest Stinger sales, Kia believes in the enduring appeal of captivating vehicles like the EV4 Concept and the significance of sedans in the automotive landscape.
In conclusion, Kia’s EV4 Concept represents a promising addition to the world of electric vehicles, embodying a blend of style, functionality, and innovation. With its unique design cues and a focus on maximizing interior space, this sedan offers a compelling option for those who value both aesthetics and practicality in their electric vehicles. While the future of sedans may be uncertain, the EV4 Concept stands as a testament to Kia’s dedication to meeting diverse customer preferences in the evolving automotive market.
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