Kia's latest concept encourages you to enjoy a picnic inside your vehicle.

      Kia is introducing a new addition to its electric vehicle lineup, the Concept EV2, which it showcased yesterday at Milan Design Week. The interior features some unique elements that distinguish it from typical car interiors, focusing on a picnic theme with its functionality and materials.

      The cabin is designed to be spacious and adaptable, featuring a flat floor and options to fold down the second row of seats while sliding the front seats back completely, allowing for an expansive area. Instead of accommodating large items, these features aim to create an environment for relaxation and enjoying snacks together.

      This idea is further reflected in playful accessories like removable seat cushions and portable speakers, enabling you to stop in picturesque locations, grab the interior accessories, and savor the outdoor scenery.

      While this car may not be ideal for extensive road trips, it does have an anticipated range of at least 300 miles, making it capable if desired. It is primarily intended as an economical city vehicle. Kia drew inspiration from urban outdoor areas such as balconies and terraces, seeking tranquil spots amidst bustling settings. The "picnic in the city" concept aims to merge practicality with leisure, allowing for both weekday errands and weekend outings to local scenic areas.

      The vehicle comes equipped with retractable seating in the rear, integrated speakers in the headrests, and collapsible luggage dividers to optimize the compact interior. Additionally, the materials used are environmentally friendly, including a cellulose-based compound for the dashboard and door panels, as well as biodegradable mycelium components, like the armrests, derived from mushroom-like cells that bind waste materials into a solid form.

      This mini SUV is expected to launch sometime next year, with a projected price of around $30,000.

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      Georgina has served as the space writer for Digital Trends for six years, focusing on human space exploration and planetary topics…

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      Ariel has introduced the E-Nomad Concept, which has the potential to carve out a new category in the electric vehicle market. Known for producing innovative sports cars, this small British company has presented an electric version of its Nomad 2 off-roader. Although still in the concept phase, the E-Nomad could establish a fresh niche in the EV sector if it gets the go-ahead for production.

      Transitioning to electric hasn't diminished the striking design; the E-Nomad retains the bold look of the Nomad 2 it's based on. Elevated from the ground, it features two sets of three headlights that create a bug-eyed appearance, protruding wheels, and a highly functional interior. It stands out as a unique blend of sports cars, SUVs, and dune buggies on the road.

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      Kia has officially commenced production of the EV9 electric SUV in Georgia, which is significant for several reasons. This marks the EV9 as the first electric vehicle manufactured in Georgia, generates more stable jobs in the U.S., and means that this reasonably priced electric SUV is set to become even more affordable.

      The price reduction is straightforward — relocating the EV9's production to Georgia from Korea allows it to qualify for the federal EV tax credit, reducing the overall vehicle cost by $7,500. Previously one of the more budget-friendly electric SUVs, the added rebate enhances its appeal further.

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      The Kia EV3 promises to be the affordable electric SUV we've been anticipating. Although the Kia EV9 was already one of the most cost-effective electric SUVs available, the company is elevating the affordability angle with the introduction of the EV3, which was teased last year and is now officially recognized.

      The EV3 is designed to be a slightly smaller and more economical variant of the EV9, reminiscent of the Rivian R2, which was launched after the Rivian R1S. While it may not boast the same technological advancements as the EV9, its design unmistakably aligns with modern Kia aesthetics, clearly marking it as a sibling to the larger SUV. Externally, the vehicle features the same split taillights and similar Tiger Face front, though it's considerably more compact. It will be available in nine different finishes, with "Aventurine Green" and "Terracotta" announced thus far.