At the Detroit Auto Show, Kia presented the KV7 concept, a modern “activity van” that can carry a large number of people and their personal items while serving as a social hub for groups of friends and adventure seekers.
The KV7 is built with the “embracing the box” philosophy in mind, a thinking that also hatched the Soul and aiming to celebrate square shapes. With its wide track, its 20-inch wheels and its low-roofline design compared to the conventional minivan, the concept emphasises the strength and appearance of an SUV.
One of the most striking elements of the vehicle is the passenger-side gullwing door that serves as a wide entry point when the front-passenger door is open. The concept makes the most out of LED lighting technology, including headlights and taillights as well as mirror-integrated turn signals; this type of lighting could soon be offered on production vehicles.
The KV7’s cockpit features four custom-built swivelling seats (including the driver’s seat) and a lounge area at the back capable of seating three passengers and that features integrated storage compartments. The idea behind this “Pimp My Ride” seating configuration is to promote social interaction.
When the vehicle is started, the dashboard moves closer to the driver, allowing easier access to controls. Rear-seat occupants also get their own interface, a floating tabletop touch-screen display. The KV7 is Wi-Fi enabled, and can allow multiple users connecting their smartphones at the same time so each can log onto social networking sites.
The KV7 concept is equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-litre engine that develops 285 horsepower and that’s connected to a 6-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain is said to provide V6 performance while offering an average of under 7.8 L/100 km on the open road.
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| Photo: Kia |
The KV7 is built with the “embracing the box” philosophy in mind, a thinking that also hatched the Soul and aiming to celebrate square shapes. With its wide track, its 20-inch wheels and its low-roofline design compared to the conventional minivan, the concept emphasises the strength and appearance of an SUV.
One of the most striking elements of the vehicle is the passenger-side gullwing door that serves as a wide entry point when the front-passenger door is open. The concept makes the most out of LED lighting technology, including headlights and taillights as well as mirror-integrated turn signals; this type of lighting could soon be offered on production vehicles.
The KV7’s cockpit features four custom-built swivelling seats (including the driver’s seat) and a lounge area at the back capable of seating three passengers and that features integrated storage compartments. The idea behind this “Pimp My Ride” seating configuration is to promote social interaction.
When the vehicle is started, the dashboard moves closer to the driver, allowing easier access to controls. Rear-seat occupants also get their own interface, a floating tabletop touch-screen display. The KV7 is Wi-Fi enabled, and can allow multiple users connecting their smartphones at the same time so each can log onto social networking sites.
The KV7 concept is equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-litre engine that develops 285 horsepower and that’s connected to a 6-speed automatic transmission. This powertrain is said to provide V6 performance while offering an average of under 7.8 L/100 km on the open road.
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| Photo: Kia |