Kia
KV7 Concept
At the 2011 North American International
Auto Show the KIA's U.S. design studio unveiled its latest design statement -
the Kia KV7 Concept.
Conceived
as a modern-day "activity MPV", the KV7 was designed by Kia's
California design team to challenge the notion that MPVs are strictly for
family transportation. KV7 reveals a vision for a vehicle with the
functionality to transport a large number of people, and their belongings, while
also serving as a connected social hub for groups of friends and
adventure-seekers.
The
Kia KV7 Concept's design stands in sharp contrast to the dramatically raked
windshields and wedge-shaped noses found throughout the MPV segment, and builds
on the philosophy of "embracing the box" established by Kia's funky
Soul urban crossover to create a unique and alluring design language that
brings SUV-like qualities to the segment.
The
lounge-like interior is accessed by a striking passenger-side gullwing door
which, when opened with the pillar-less front passenger door, provides
extraordinarily convenient access. It also allows the vehicle to open up to the
outside world and become the sociable hub of an outdoor event.
As
such, the Kia KV7 Concept's interior employs four custom-built swivelling
seats, including the driver's seat, and a rear-corner mini-lounge with seating
for three and integrated storage compartments to promote interaction in an open
social environment.
The
simple yet sophisticated theme is brought to life inside the Kia KV7 Concept
through its modern colour palette featuring soft beige and green tones and the
use of unique seat and surface materials. The KV7 utilizes a variety of
unconventional textures, including reclaimed teak wood flooring and sustainable
wool and felt materials help to foster a warm and inviting atmosphere. When
the Kia KV7 Concept's push button start is engaged, the entire front dash moves
more than six inches toward the driver, bringing all controls within easy
reach, including the large multi-use display which integrates infotainment,
climate and navigation systems in one simple-to-use interface controlled by a
trackball mouse mounted in the dash.
Rear
passengers have their own, separate interface in the form of a floating
tabletop touch-screen computer display. The KV7 is Wi-Fi enabled, providing
both the front and rear displays with internet capabilities and the ability for
multiple passengers to connect their smart phones to the vehicle at one time
and sign on to social networking sites.
Building
on the experimental use of LED lighting elements found on the exterior, the Kia
KV7 Concept's interior also features multiple flush-to-the-floor accent
illumination points and standout green LED lighting throughout the front dash,
instrument panel and rear display area to compliment the vehicle's colour
palette.
The
final element that separates the Kia KV7 Concept from the rest of the MPV crowd
can be found under the hood - the concept is powered by Kia's new Theta II
2.0-litre GDI turbocharged engine, as found in the new U.S. spec Optima saloon.
Capable of delivering up to 285 hp and mated to a six-speed automatic
transmission it delivers V6-type power and performance while enhancing fuel
efficiency.
