Days after teasing a major reveal at the 2024 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show, Kia has unveiled two unique and custom-built EV concepts designed for adventure off-road. During the unveiling, we got a look at a new spin on the ever-popular EV9 SUV called the “ADVNTR” and a rugged take on one of Kia’s new purpose-built vehicles (PBVs), the PV5, called “WKNDR.”
On October 30, Kia America posted a clandestine press release about an upcoming reveal at the annual SEMA show in Los Angeles. The first release featured a shadowy image of what appeared to be some off-road vehicle, with its recognizable Kia front fascia shining at the camera lens. The text read, “All roads lead to SEMA.”
We speculated that SEMA might be the event where Kia finally unveils the first of its two promised BEV pickup trucks. Since the headlamps closely resembled those of an EV9, we thought it could be the mule pickup we reported being tested in the US earlier this year. We were close.
Later that same day, Kia followed up with a second press release with the same title and quote but an image of a different off-road EV shining through the darkness, one that was much less recognizable.
Both releases had fine print stating that the vehicle in each image was a concept, so we curbed our expectations heading into this week’s 2024 SEMA show. This morning, Kia officially unveiled these two new off-road concept EVs, and they’re pretty cool looking. Have a gander at the EV9 ADVNTR and the PV5 WKNDR.
Kia unveils off-road concepts of its EV9 and PV5 EVs
According to the Korean automaker, designers from Kia Design Center America (KDCA) in Irvine, CA, imagined both off-road concepts. SEMA is usually a stage for OEMs to showcase concepts and accessories that are more rugged or heavy-duty.
Hence, the Kia team brought its A-game to Vegas with two new concept EVs that “intrinsically blend form and function into machines designed for responsible engagement with nature.”
The first is the EV9 ADVNTR, based on the three-row SUV that contributed to record sales for Kia in the US in October. Today, Kia shared that its off-road concept version of the EV9 is equipped with new custom front and rear facias, reinforced rocker panels, and rugged tires for more maneuverability in the elements.
Additionally, the EV9 ADVNTR can lift 3 inches higher than the standard 2025 SUV model and features a new roof rack that can haul luggage and hiking gear or support a roof-mounted tent.
In addition to the EV9 ADVNTR, Kia unveiled an off-road concept version of its new PV5 called the WKNDR. The PV5 is a middle-of-the-pack BEV in Kia’s latest ‘Purpose Beyond Vehicle’ lineup, which debuted at CES 2024.
While the standard PV5 was designed for commercial operations and last-mile deliveries, the Kia design team decided to take it off-road with the new WKNDR concept. This BEV van has been lifted and rigged with some hefty off-road tires, but like its predecessor, the interior of the PV5 WKNDR is what truly stands out.
Kia describes the off-road concept van as a “Swiss Army Knife on wheels,” offering a modular cabin that can be customized to an owner’s wants and needs. The conceptual design features a first-of-its-kind storage solution called the “Gear Head” feature that delivers off-board, sheltered storage space for equipment when the vehicle is stationary, maximizing interior space while providing owners with easy access to all their belongings.
Thanks to its modularity, Kia shared that the off-road van’s “Gear Head” space can also be converted into a mobile pantry for those foodies who want to assemble an array of cuisine while parked out in nature, or anywhere for that matter.
Kia also shared that its team designed the PV5 WKNDR to be self-sufficient as an off-road BEV. It features solar panels and hydro turbine wheels that can recharge the vehicle’s batteries and power other components, like an onboard compressor.
Since these remain mere concepts, we don’t have any performance specs for the Kia EV9 ADVNTR or PV5 WKNDR, nor can we confirm that either model will reach bonafide production for sale. However, Kia is thinking beyond its current lineup and is at least flirting with the idea of delivering some new models that would compete against the likes of Ford, Rivian, and recent reveals from VW Group’s Scout Motors.
At the very least, we may see some of these features and design elements in Kia’s upcoming BEV pickups. For now, however, these off-road EV concepts are an exciting exercise in design that once again shows how innovative and creative Hyundai Motor Group is across virtually all BEV segments.
We hope to see more concrete unveilings from the Korean automaker soon.
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![Hyundai's new IONIQ 6 already looks like a major upgrade on the road [Video]](https://i0.wp.com/electrek.co/wp-content/uploads/sites/3/2025/04/Hyundais-new-IONIQ-6.jpeg?resize=1200,628&quality=82&strip=all&ssl=1)
Hyundai’s electric fastback is getting a fresh new look. Just a week after unveiling the redesigned IONIQ 6, we are already getting our first look at it out in the real world. Hyundai’s new IONIQ 6 was spotted driving in Korea, and from the looks of it, this could be a major upgrade.
Hyundai’s new IONIQ 6 looks sleek on the road
Launched in 2022, Hyundai’s “Electrified Streamliner” was expected to challenge the Tesla Model 3 as one of the few electric sedans on the market.
Prices start at under $38,000, and with up to 342 miles of driving range (EPA-est), the IONIQ 6 arrived as one of the most efficient EV options. A Boston Consulting Group report last year even found it to be the only EV that met buyers’ price, range, and charging expectations.
Despite the impressive specs and unique new design, Hyundai’s electric car has failed to live up to expectations. Will a redesign spark some life into the EV?
Hyundai unveiled the new IONIQ 6 at the Seoul Mobility Show last week, with a few noticeable design changes. With a new ducktail spoiler, the profile is smoother and more natural-looking, which was one of the biggest complaints.
The front and rear are redesigned with slim LED DRLs and main headlamps. Hyundai claims it “enhanced every line and detail to make the IONIQ 6 simpler and more progressive.”
After the new model was spotted driving for the first time in Korea, we are already getting a sneak peek at Hyundai’s refreshed IONIQ 6 on the road.
The new video from HealerTV gives us a good look at the changes from all angles. The rear spoiler has been upgraded to have a sportier overall look. The new, slim DRLs are a good touch, adding to its aggressive face.
Hyundai also updated the interior with a redesigned steering wheel and better materials on the door trim for “a more premium feel.” Other improvements include a more functional center console and a larger climate control display.
A new IONIQ 6 N will finally join the lineup. Hyundai teased the sporty new N model with an even more aggressive design based on the RN22e Rolling Lab concept.
Although more details will be revealed closer to its launch, we expect other improvements pulled from the 2025 IONIQ 5, like an added NACS port and potentially even more driving range.
What do you think of the new IONIQ 6? Do you like the redesign, or is it still not enough? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
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The 2025 Dodge Charger Daytona EV came in hot – and expensive – when it launched at the end of 2024 with no official rebate. But that’s just changed.
The 2025 Dodge Charger Daytona EV starts at $66,990 including the destination fee. But the actual cost of this luxury muscle car is $78,680 including all the required packages.
And as of April 1, it now comes with a $6,500 National Retail Consumer Cash rebate.
Stellantis Financing continues to offer a special financing rate of 1.9% APR for 72 months, but unfortunately, that can’t be combined with the $6,500 rebate, so you have to choose one or the other.
If you’re interested in leasing a Charger Daytona EV, then you can get $7,500 in lease cash from Stellantis Financial. Stellantis also offers Chrysler employee pricing to the public, but it can’t be stacked with rebates. How employee pricing works is, dealer pricing is 5% below the dealer invoice and a $200 program fee, plus you can’t haggle over pricing.
CarsDirect notes that the 2024 model still has the best deals on a Dodge Charger Daytona EV, with four options on the table:
- 0% APR financing for 72 months plus $3,000 in bonus cash
- $7,500 National Retail Consumer Cash in addition to $3,000 in bonus cash
- $2,000 Conquest Bonus Cash deal in select regions like the West Coast
- $7,500 in lease cash plus $6,000 in bonus cash for those who want to lease
Click here to find a local dealer that may have the 2024 & 2025 Dodge Charger Daytona EV in stock.–trusted affiliate link
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Although the EV2 is Kia’s smallest EV, it won’t feel so small when sitting in it. Kia designed the open interior to give you an escape from the city. After sharing new details at Milan Design Week on Thursday, Kia gave us a closer look at the EV2 inside and out. The new interior design could see its way into future Kia EV models.
Kia EV2 interior is small but flexible
At Milan Design Week 2025, Kia held an exclusive exhibition for its upcoming EV models. The Concept EV2 was showcased alongside Kia’s first electric van, the PV5, and a rugged PV5 WKNDR concept.
Kia revealed new details about the EV2’s interior and what we can expect to see when it arrives. Inspired by a “picnic in the city,” the cabin is designed to feel as open and flexible as possible.
Like a balcony or porch, which offers a relaxing retreat from busy city life, Kia wants the EV2 to have a similar feel. Thanks to its flat-floor layout, the interior can open up with flexible seating. The second-row seats can fold up while the front seats slide up to provide an open space—you know, where you might want to have a picnic.
Kia added a few extras like integrated speakers in the headrest, portable door speakers, detachable seat cushions, extendable seats, and pop-up luggage dividers for your next adventure.
Even with the fun features, Kia focused on sustainability. The interior introduces environmentally conscious materials like Simplifyber Fybron™, AmpliTex, and biodegradable mycelium components.
Kia said the new design elements showcase its vision for future EV interiors. More details will be shared closer to the launch, but the EV2 is expected to include Kia’s new ccNC infotainment system.
As shown in the concept, the system features a curved display with dual 12.3″ driver and infotainment screens. Despite being an entry-level model, the EV2 will have advanced features like vehicle-to-load (VTL) to power up electronics or home appliances. It will also get smarter and more advanced over time with OTA updates.
Last month, we got our first look at Kia’s entry-level electric SUV on the road in Korea with a Soul-like design. Kia will launch the EV2 in Europe and other global markets next year.
Like other Kia electric models based on Hyundai’s E-GMP platform, the EV2 is expected to arrive with a WLTP range of at least 300 miles (605 km). Although prices will be revealed closer to launch, the EV2 is expected to start at around 30,000 euros ($33,000), but that could change in another year or so.
How do you feel about the Kia EV2? Would you buy one for around 30,000 euros ($33,000)? Let us know in the comments. We should learn more soon. We’ll keep you updated with the latest.
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