Germany, known for its mix of bustling cities and dense forests, is a source of inspiration and creativity. The balance between vibrant urban areas and green surroundings like forests and mountains creates a unique harmony. City gardens add to this greenery, making the cities feel lively and connected to nature. Influencing various aspects of life, Germany's environment sparks creativity, especially in design. The thrill of exploring forest trails on mountain bikes fuels curiosity and innovation, shaping visionary concepts. One such concept that arose from a project at ArtCenter College of Design is the Kia Centaur SUV Concept.

Disclaimer: This is a personal project from Jun Kim and not an official concept from Kia

Kia was selected by the student designer because of its design philosophy, "Opposites United," which aligned perfectly with the envisioned environment and lifestyle. The vehicle had to embody traits like protection and openness, refinement and rawness, all at once. Balancing these contrasting elements presented a challenge, but it also sparked innovative ideas. Inspired by Greek mythology, the vehicle was named Centaur, drawing from the legendary creature known for its human intellect and the agility of a horse. These qualities of the mythical Centaur were integrated into Kia's new electric vehicle (EV) SUV.

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This concept aimed to capture the essence of strength and intelligence combined with nimbleness and agility, characteristics synonymous with the mythical creature. This fusion of traits symbolized Kia's vision for a vehicle that blends robustness with innovation, suitable for modern lifestyles and future mobility needs.

Kia Centaur SUV's Aesthetic and Functional Design

The Kia Centaur's design combines strength with elegance, resembling a horse with its four strong shoulders and a sleek, upright body. Its elongated front windshield is crafted for high-speed travel on the Autobahn, improving aerodynamics and visibility. From the side, a prominent X motion divides the design into zones of smooth surfaces and sharp edges, embodying Kia's "Opposites United" philosophy.

Moving inward from each end, the surfaces transition from sharp and technical to smooth and refined, creating a harmonious balance. At the front, bold rectangular surfaces and sharp creases give the Centaur a powerful and authoritative presence. The headlights are integrated into these strong shoulders, featuring a new interpretation of Kia's Starlight Signature Headlights. Unlike traditional designs with small triangles connected by straight lines, the Centaur's headlights span across multiple planes, evolving Kia's signature style into a more dynamic and striking form. This innovative approach not only enhances the vehicle's aesthetic appeal but also symbolizes Kia's commitment to pushing design boundaries and creating vehicles that are both visually compelling and technologically advanced.

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The rear design combines various geometries to create a powerful impression. Smooth cylinders dominate the middle section, while the taillight takes on a strong pyramid shape. A unique feature of the Centaur is the concept of cutting edges to make a bold statement. This unexpected design element creates a sharp and iconic rear profile. The vehicle's utility is designed to cater to diverse lifestyles, with cargo space divided into front and rear zones. The front includes a frunk and small side pod compartments for urban use, storing items like backpacks and shopping bags. The rear is designed for leisure activities, with a removable bed cover for taller items and deeper side pods for camping or hiking gear.

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Kia Centaur SUV's modern, bold, and sporty design fits perfectly into European cities while offering the ruggedness needed for off-road adventures. The vehicle’s great stance and strong shoulders exude a sense of protection and raw off-road capability. With the added benefit of an open rear bed within its refined aesthetics, the Centaur seamlessly blends into both concrete and forest environments. It embodies a harmonious blend of opposites, combining rugged utility with modern elegance. 

It is designed for those who cherish the balance between city life and the calmness of nature. As a vision for the future, the Centaur represents a lifestyle that values both adventure and sophistication, making it an ideal companion for the envisioned life in Germany. This innovative vehicle is not just a dream but a testament to the creativity and forward-thinking design that bridges the gap between different worlds, offering a glimpse into a future where harmony and versatility reign supreme.