Kia's 'Transcend Journey' Installation
Kia Corporation recently exhibited its innovative design installation titled
'Transcend Journey' during the Milan Design Week, held from April 7 to April 9, 2025. This stunning exhibition took place at the East End Studios in Milan, Italy, and showcased their groundbreaking electric vehicles, the Kia PV5, the PV5 WKNDR, and the Concept EV2.
The
'Transcend Journey' installation encapsulated the essence of how Kia's 100% electric PBVs (Purpose-Built Vehicles) are set to redefine our lifestyles through their impressive adaptability and customization capabilities. It represented the vision and design philosophy of the brand which focuses on harmoniously merging vehicle functionality with lifestyle needs.
The Exhibition's Theme
The installation served as a conceptual exploration of mobility, emphasizing how Kia vehicles can seamlessly connect urban experiences with outdoor adventures. Drawing inspiration from Kia’s design philosophy known as
'Opposites United', the installation resembled a twisted sculpture symbolizing the harmonious blend of contrasting ideas. The exhibition was structured in two distinct areas that intertwined mobility with natural elements, showcasing the vehicles’ versatility in both urban and nature settings.
Featured Vehicles
The 'Transcend Journey' featured three key models:
- - Kia PV5: Designed for practical everyday use in urban environments while also serving well for escapades.
- - Kia Concept EV2: A representation of how urban landscapes can be enriched with natural elements.
- - Kia PV5 WKNDR: Tailored for those seeking unique outdoor experiences.
Within the installation, the area dedicated to the Concept EV2 showcased an urban park picnic scene, adorned with carefully selected picnic accessories that matched the vehicle's calming blue exterior. This setup radiated relaxation and perfectly complemented the vehicle's modern aesthetics.
Conversely, the PV5 and PV5 WKNDR were presented alongside complementary artwork in a space designed to evoke a camping experience, complete with a coffee bar, camping gear, and surrounded by lush greenery—encouraging a warm and immersive outdoor living atmosphere.
These designs convincingly narrated how a single platform can adapt seamlessly to urban life and the great outdoors. The contrasting characters of the PV5 and PV5 WKNDR highlighted the vast potential and flexibility offered by Kia’s 100% electric Purpose-Built Vehicles.
Collaborative Partnerships
Kia’s collaboration with various lifestyle brands, including outdoor equipment provider
Helinox and South Korean coffee shop
Potler, enhanced the visitors' experience at the exhibition. The artistic installation, crafted from materials utilized in Helinox products, illustrated the varying applications of the Kia PV5 and its modular potential across different lifestyles and experiences.
The installation embodied a dynamic three-dimensional space, marked by its lightweight materials and easy-to-assemble structure, underscoring the adaptability of Kia's PBVs. The PV5 WKNDR was presented amidst camping chairs and canopies, showcasing its recreational qualities, and involved a mobile coffee bar developed with Potler, allowing visitors to engage with the experience interactively.
By showcasing the Concept EV2 with Helinox’s outdoor picnic products, the installation emphasized its modularity for both urban and outdoor use, echoing Kia’s ambitious aim of exploring how mobility can enhance a variety of experiences.
Key Features of the Kia PV5
The Kia PV5, being the brand's first production model under its new PBV strategy, redefines space and mobility. It is designed on the next-generation
E-GMP platform, boasting unprecedented flexibility with various body styles available, including PV5, Van, and Chassis-Cab variants. Key specifications include:
- - Up to 400 km WLTP driving range
- - Rapid charging within 30 minutes
- - Designed for professional and leisure use
- - Set to debut in South Korea and Europe in the latter half of 2025, with plans for further expansion.
The PV5 offers an expansive interior with multiple passenger amenities and versatile seating configurations, ensuring optimal use of space.
Features of the PV5 WKNDR
PV5 WKNDR is rugged and entirely off-grid, equipped with solar panels and exclusive hydraulic turbine wheels for battery charging during excursions. Its design embraces sustainability with materials like
Nike Grind flooring, promoting functional and aesthetic advantages for outdoor enthusiasts.
Features of the Concept EV2
The Concept EV2 embodies agility as a compact SUV designed for urban lifestyles, featuring flexible interior configurations, striking design elements, and cutting-edge technology, making it an easy companion for active city dwellers.
Kia Corporation continues to set benchmarks in the electric vehicle landscape with these innovations, demonstrating the brand’s commitment to inspiring movement through advanced mobility solutions.