In 2021, Kia underwent a brand relaunch, unveiling a redesigned minimalist logo and a new company slogan: “Movement that inspires.” The brand has since continued to build on this relaunch and expand its presence in the region, and earlier this year, it started treading new waters with the establishment of Kia Sales (Thailand). Now, the carmaker doubles down on its arrival with its first-ever participation at the 2024 Bangkok International Motor Show (BIMS).
The Korean carmaker takes center stage at BIMS this year with a vibrant booth conceptualized from its purpose of inspiring customers through products, services, and experiences with the brand. It also incorporates the ‘Windows of Inspiration’ theme, aiming to invoke emotional shifts among customers and give them simple but innovative mobility experiences.
The booth also embodies Plan S, Kia’s new strategy that seeks to establish the brand as an automotive industry leader in electrification, mobility, connectivity, and autonomy. This is further emphasized by the showcase of the Kia EV5, which just made its ASEAN debut at BIMS.
The EV5 is Kia’s revolutionary new midsize SUV that uses the brand’s proprietary E-GMP platform. This skateboard chassis allows for the battery to be positioned underneath the floor, lowering the center of gravity and enabling exceptional handling. The platform also utilizes Kia’s cutting-edge fast-charging technology, allowing battery recharging from minimum state to 80% in just 27 minutes.
Watch: Kia at BIMS 2024
The EV5 promises class-leading second-row head- and legroom, too and the rear seats fold flat to open up more cargo space. There’s a multi-table luggage board available, which can transform the rear cabin into a lounge-like space. Further enhancing this in-cabin experience are the cooling and warming functions of the EV5’s center console, essentially doubling as a refrigerator or heater. These are just examples of Kia’s smart and practical interior solutions in its electric vehicles.
Also on display is the Kia EV9, the brand’s flagship three-row electric SUV underpinned by the same E-GMP platform. This award-winning vehicle offers first-class comfort, with multiple configurations available.
The seven-seat version maximizes interior space to prioritize more passengers. The six-seat layout, meanwhile, can be had with relaxation seats or swivel seats at the rear. The EV9 also has a floating center console that stretches from the first to the second row, providing under-tray storage for passengers up front and a sliding storage console for those out back.
The EV9 and the EV5 are also equipped with the best safety and driver-assist tech Kia has to offer. This includes the Remote Smart Parking Assist 2, a feature that allows drivers to park their vehicles using the smart key fob.
These two models headlining Kia’s BIMS display mark merely the start of the carmaker’s electrification initiatives in the region. They also help bolster Kia’s efforts to electrify its lineup in the Philippines, a task it had already started with the EV6. The brand has more lined up for ASEAN, so expect to see a stronger EV push from Kia this year.
Created in partnership with Kia Asia Pacific
