Responsible Material design
While creating and developing new innovative colors and materials, Kia’s designers also take into consideration how to use resources with responsibility and reduce the environmental impact to the minimum. After a careful evaluation of where we stand in terms of recyclability and biomaterials development a 3 actions strategy is under implementation:
Leather-free
Kia will gradually stop the use of leather for vehicle interior. 2023 launched EV9 was the first model. Our goal is to completely stop using leather and replace it with Bio PU (Bio Polyurethane) added with biomaterials such as corn or eucalyptus. Bio PU has similar feeling as leather, is highly durable, and can reduce carbon emission as well as toxic chemicals.
10 Material Solutions
This refers to 10 material solutions like Bio PU, recycled PET fabric and BTX-free paint that will be applied to new Kia models, which will contribute to reduce the environmental impact.
1. Bio plastic
2. PCM** plastic
3. Bio PU
4. Recycled PET fabric
5. Recycled PET or
fishing net carpet
6. Bio PU foam
7. Bio paint
8. BTX free paint
9. Recycled PET yarns
10. Recycled PET felt
Bio Fabrication
As an advanced ongoing study Kia aims to bio fabricate its own materials. Developments such as the mycelium leather replacement, which is created from the mushroom roots are key future oriented projects done with great partners for a better future. Kia believes that technology should be an enabler to get us closer to nature.