As part of the Milan Design Week, Kia Corporation recently showcased the perspectives of designers involved in the development of its new Platform Beyond Vehicle (PBV) and electric vehicle (EV) models.
In the range of vehicles showcased, two of them drew our attention this morning:
The Kia Concept EV2, which aims to reintroduce natural elements into urban landscapes, and the Kia PV5 WKNDR, which enhances user experience with the outdoors.
For these two vehicles, the car manufacturer collaborated with several suppliers, including 3D printing service providers, to achieve its adaptability and customization goals.
The Kia EV2 particularly captured attention with 3D-printed backrests for the driver and front passenger seats, as well as the rear seat cushion. Developed in collaboration with OECHSLER, the company behind one of the lightest chairs ever produced, the front backrests are fully removable and made from a permeable TPU lattice structure that is both air- and light-permeable – perfectly aligned with the vehicle’s interior ambient lighting.
The Concept EV2’s interior has been designed to feel open and seamlessly connected – both inside and out – reflecting Kia’s ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy. It blends compact dimensions with spacious flexibility, offering a highly functional, environmentally mindful space that responds to the needs of modern urban life.
Accoridng to OECHSLER, while the outer lattice highlights aesthetic appeal, the inner lattice is designed for function and comfort — featuring customized hardness levels that align with Kia’s vision for the driver experience.
Another remarkable element is the rear seat cushion, the largest 3D-printed cushion ever integrated into a vehicle. Each component is precisely color-matched to the car’s exterior and finished with smooth surfaces that enhance its premium look.
Crafted from recyclable TPU, these parts illustrate how sustainable materials, functional performance, and refined design can seamlessly converge in the next generation of mobility solutions.
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