Kia is turning heads at this year’s SEMA Show in Las Vegas with the unveiling of two all-new, custom-built electric vehicle (EV) concepts designed for the great outdoors. 

According to Kia, the company has taken its popular EV9 SUV and PV5 van models and transformed them into capable, adventure-ready EVs. The first concept, the “EV9 ADVNTR,” is a lifted and reinforced version of Kia’s three-row electric SUV. Designed by the brand’s Kia Design Center America (KDCA) team in Irvine, California, the ADVNTR features a custom front and rear fascia, along with beefed-up rocker panels to enhance its off-road prowess.

Kia has also increased the ride height by 3 inches compared to the standard EV9 and equipped the concept with a set ofrugged tires and wheels to tackle more challenging terrain. To top it off, the ADVNTR boasts a versatile roof rack system that can accommodate both traditional luggage and even a rooftop tent for those seeking to truly embrace the great outdoors.

In addition, the ADVNTR is not the only off-road-focused Kia EV on display at SEMA. The automaker has also revealed the “PV5 WKNDR” – a purpose-built electric van that has been transformed into a “Swiss Army Knife on wheels.”

Like the ADVNTR, the WKNDR has been lifted and fitted with beefy off-road tires. However, the real standout feature is its highly flexible and modular interior. Kia’s design team has incorporated a unique “Gear Head” storage system that provides sheltered, off-board space for equipment when the vehicle is stationary, maximizing the usable cabin space.

Moreover, the WKNDR also features solar panels and “hydro turbine wheels” that can recharge the vehicle’s batteries, enabling it to be largely self-sufficient when venturing off the grid. Kia has even included an onboard air compressor to assist with inflating tires or mattresses when camping.

“Kia’s rugged and capable utility vehicles have long been known for being versatile, adaptable and comfortable to suit the needs of a wide range of consumers,” stated Steven Center, COO & EVP of Kia America. “We wanted to ‘level up’ the functionality and capability by developing these concepts that take those legendary attributes to the next level.”

While these off-road-focused EV concepts may not make it to production in their current form, they provide a glimpse into Kia’s vision for the future of adventure-ready electric vehicles. With their unique blending of form and function, the ADVNTR and WKNDR showcase the brand’s goal of delivering innovative solutions for the most demanding outdoor enthusiasts.

Read More: Kia Reveals 2025 EV9 Pricing With Starting Price At $54,900 In The U.S.

As Kia is positioning itself at the forefront of this movement, these SEMA concepts are a clear statement of intent – Kia is ready to take EVs off the beaten path.

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