Kia’s Vision for Electric Overlanding
Kia has unveiled the PV5 WKNDR concept electric van, a futuristic overland camper van that’s sparking excitement among adventure seekers. This concept vehicle, showcased at SEMA, combines innovative design with practical features for off-grid exploration.
A Concept That’s More Than Just a Design Exercise
The PV5 WKNDR is part of Kia’s broader strategy to enter the electric commercial vehicle market with its PV series, built on the Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBV) architecture. While the production version will likely differ from this concept, it gives us a glimpse into the versatility of the PV5 platform.
The concept features an integrated winch, a highly reconfigurable interior, and a modular rack system that showcases the potential for customization. The front passenger seat, for instance, appears to be assembled from panels that pop out from the cargo area walls, demonstrating the van’s adaptability.
Key Features of the PV5 WKNDR Concept
- Integrated winch for off-road recovery
- Reconfigurable interior for various needs
- Modular rack system for storage and equipment
- Solar-panel-equipped pop-top for off-grid power
- Dual-purpose sliding door with gear rack system
While the likelihood of Kia producing a turn-key camper van like this concept in the U.S. market is low, the features and design elements shown here could influence future production models or upfitter configurations.
Exploring the Broader Kia EV Lineup
Kia also showcased the EV9 ADVNTR concept, a version of their three-row SUV that’s geared towards off-road capability. While the 3-inch lift shown in the concept is unlikely to make it to production, it hints at the possibility of an EV9 X-Pro trim with enhanced off-road features.
The EV9 ADVNTR features a roof rack, knobby tires, tow hooks, and light bars, giving it a rugged appearance. This aligns with trends seen in other manufacturers, such as Hyundai’s Ioniq 5 XRT, which adds aggressive cladding and all-terrain tires to create an off-road capable vehicle.
Conclusion
Kia’s PV5 WKNDR and EV9 ADVNTR concepts showcase the brand’s vision for electric vehicles that are capable of more than just daily driving. They represent a push towards vehicles that can handle adventure and off-road excursions, potentially shaping the future of Kia’s production electric vehicles.
