KIA KV7 Concept showcases future vision for the van segment

DETROIT – Kia Motors’ design-led transformation has delivered eye-catching vehicles such as the Soul, Forte Koup, Sorento and Sportage that bear strong resemblances to the concept cars that preceded them, and today at the 2011 North American International Auto Show the brand’s U.S. design studio unveiled its latest design statement – the “KV7” concept. Conceived as a modern-day “activity van,” the KV7 concept challenges the notion that vans are strictly for family transportation and 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 KV7 concept’s design stands in sharp contrast to the dramatically raked windshields and wedge-shaped noses found throughout the van segment, and builds on the philosophy of “embracing the box” established by Kia’s funky Soul urban passenger vehicle to create a unique and alluring design language that brings SUV-like qualities to the segment.

“From the outset, we felt the category was in need of an honest reassessment due to the fact that everyone seems so desperate to attach the word ‘sporty’ to their minivan, even though vans, at their very core are simply a box,” said Tom Kearns, chief designer, Kia Motors America. “Rather than reject the box we chose to celebrate it, just like we did with the Soul, and the result is a straightforward yet sophisticated vehicle that retains the functionality vans are known for and meets the changing and diverse needs of today’s consumers.”

Photos: KIA

(January 10, 2011)

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