The Red Dot: Best of the Best award is only presented to the most pioneering designs and further validates the success of the Kia design team in creating the EV9, the brand’s first flagship electric SUV.
With the EV9, Kia created an electric vehicle with a bold and authentic SUV character that pushes the boundaries, not only of design, but also of usability, connectivity and environmental responsibility. This award recognises the brands continuous push to bring innovative and inspiring solutions to the market.
The accolade also recognises the inspiring power of Kia’s design philosophy. ‘Opposites United’, which has guided every stage of the EV9’s development. Reinforcing Kia’s strong design identity, this design philosophy continuously inspires Kia to create products that are meaningful, and which positively impact the lives of its customers.
The Kia EV9 represents the essence of Kia’s ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy, presenting a harmonious combination of futuristic design, highly advanced technology and sustainable values. Harnessing the creative tension generated by the divergent values of nature and modernity to deliver a harmonious whole, the philosophy provides Kia’s designers with a framework through which to fuse a unique combination of sleek, sculptural shapes and assured, assertive geometry, delivering a strikingly contemporary yet graceful aesthetic.
The EV9 also represents Kia’s strategic commitment to becoming a leader in sustainable mobility. When it was launched the flagship SUV was the first model to embrace the brand’s three-step design sustainability strategy, initiated to gradually phase out the use of animal sourced leather, apply ten must have sustainable items to all new Kia models and commit to ongoing research into the development of natural and bio-based materials.
The Red Dot Design Award is one of the most highly sought-after seals of design quality. Each year, a jury of international experts examines the submissions for design quality and degree of innovation. This year, the jury acknowledged the creative influence of Kia’s Opposites United design philosophy, highlighting the EV9’s successful exterior design, contemporary character and strong classic lines.
Since its launch in 2023, the Kia EV9’s design values and customer appeal have been critically acclaimed on numerous occasions. Earlier this year, the flagship SUV achieved double success at the World Car Awards 2024 as the overall winner (World Car of the Year) and the best electric vehicle (World Electric Vehicle). Other awards include Women’s World Car of the Year 2024, German Luxury Car of the Year 2024, Golden Steering Wheel 2023, TopGear.com Family Car of the Year 2023 as well as UK Car of the Year 2024 and North American Utility Vehicle of the Year 2024.
