- The plug-in hybrid version of the Kia Niro wins in the “Product Design” category
- Model stands out for embodying ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy and unique use of eco-friendly interior materials
- Kia to exhibit its design philosophy at seven-day event in Milan, Italy
- Karim Habib among key Kia design executives to discuss the brand’s design philosophy and vision
13 April 2023 – The Kia Niro Plug-in Hybrid has been recognised with a Red Dot Design Award in the category “Product Design”. The award is a testament to Kia’s commitment to designing innovative, high-quality vehicles that meet the needs of its customers while also staying at the forefront of cutting-edge design.
The Niro Plug-in Hybrid features an emotional yet rational design aesthetic, guided by Kia’s ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy. The purposeful and head-turning look was designed to inspire movement. Notable features include contemporary-looking angular ‘Heartbeat’ daytime running lights (DRLs), a distinctive Aero C-Pillar, a bold skid plate and cladding to enhance the electrified CUV’s rugged stance. Combined with the latest evolution of Kia’s signature Tiger Face, the model embodies a distinctly Kia design.
In international markets, the Kia Niro comes with the choice of three electrified powertrains: full-electric, hybrid, and plug-in hybrid. In line with the eco-friendly driving choices, all three variations also feature eco-friendly interior materials, ranging from recycled wallpaper in the headline, VOC-free paint in the door panels, and PU vegan leather seat coverings, made from Tencel from Eucalyptus trees. In addition, the cargo screen contains 75% recycled fibres.
“We are honoured to be recognized by the Red Dot Design Awards for our efforts, and we look forward to continuing to push the boundaries of automotive design,” said Sjoerd Knipping, Vice President of Product and Marketing at Kia Europe. “This recognition is a testament to the hard work of our design and engineering teams, as well as the winning nature of our design philosophy ‘Opposites United.’
The Red Dot Design Award is one of the most highly sought-after seals of design quality. Each year, a jury of international experts examine the submissions for design quality and degree of innovation.
This achievement comes after a long line of design award wins by Kia. The latest success by the Niro Plug-in Hybrid marks the 28th Red Dot awarded to a Kia model since 2009. Last year, the all-new EV6 was crowned ‘Best of the Best’ for its pioneering and forward-looking design, and in 2021, the Kia Sorento also won the Red Dot Award for its product design. These awards demonstrate the company’s continued ability to create exceptional products that push the boundaries of design excellence.
Kia vehicles aren’t the only Kia products to reap design accolades in recent years. In 2022, the company’s ‘Moving Inspiration Project,’ a design installation highlighting the company’s brand philosophy in Italy, was also awarded a Red Dot Design Award.
Next week, from April 17th to April 23rd, Kia will also present its design philosophy – ‘Opposites United’ – in an innovative exhibition taking place at the 2023 Milan Design Week. Housed at the Museo della Permanente in Milan, the exhibit will be supported by various performances and parties to engage directly with customers.
The exhibition builds on the concepts of disruption and contrast to create characterful designs intended to inspire thought and exchange. The Kia design team has devoted itself to creating artwork which describes the concepts and processes that embody the new design philosophy. Karim Habib, Executive Vice President and Head of Kia Global Design, will be among the top Kia design executives in attendance to elaborate on the ‘Opposites United’ installation and discuss the brand’s design philosophy as a whole.
The art exhibition, which premiered at the 2021 Gwangju Design Biennale in Korea to critical acclaim, will also feature an event space including a stage and forum for talks and keynotes. Throughout Milan Design Week, each day will be dedicated to one of the five key design principles of ‘Opposites United’. Deep dives, discussions, and vivid performances will bring the contrasting yet complementary principles to life. This includes a discussion forum and an art performance every evening.
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