With the Concept EV9 behind him, head of design Karim Habib outlines a new direction for the Kia brand, one that is led by contrasts
Kia unveiled its latest concept, the EV9, at this year’s Los Angeles Auto Show, previewing what a three-row electric SUV might look like as the brand begins to fulfill its promise to introduce seven new EV production models by 2027. CDN’s North America correspondent Laura Burstein caught up with Kia head of design Karim Habib for a private walkaround of the new concept and chat about the company’s design direction.
Laura Burstein: This vehicle is quite a departure from the Telluride, Kia’s current ICE three-row SUV. Why did your design team choose to go in this direction?
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