Kia uses innovative, eco-friendly interior materials for Concept EV3 and EV4

MANILA: Kia Corporation has revealed the interiors of the Concept EV3 and EV4, as well as the innovative and sustainable materials and construction methods applied to them.

The Color, Materials, and Finish (CMF) design team at Kia was inspired by the element of air while designing the interior of the Concept EV3, making the most of light and transparency of the cabin.

For the Kia Concept EV4, the CMF team took inspiration from the element Earth. They also made use of various cutting-edge, eco-friendly materials to lessen the environmental impact of the vehicle, give designers more design freedom, and create unprecedented levels of color options and trim finish.

Mycelium, the material used for the console table of the Concept EV3, was grown, not manufactured. According to Kia CMF Design Head Marilia Biill, mycelium comes from mushroom roots and has a very soft surface. “Developing grown materials, a process referred to as bio fabrication, is a major goal for Kia,” she said.

Meanwhile, for the Concept EV4, the team used hemp fibers to improve the console table’s visual appeal and functionality. To create a nearly infinite range of tonalities and hues for the  interior, the team will use madder roots and walnut shells to apply natural dyes to 100-percent recycled cotton.

The team also wove fabric stripes by hand and applied them on the dashboard and storage area of the Concept Ev4 to give a sense of uniqueness. This handcrafted method produces a three-dimensional effect that is as spectacular and exquisitely executed as the three-dimensional knit finish in the Concept EV3 seat covers.

Kia has a long history of incorporating sustainable materials into its products, starting with the use of bioplastic and sugar cane bio fiber in the 2014 Soul EV.

Photos from Kia Corporation

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