Kia is celebrating victory in two key categories at this year’s Newsweek World’s Greatest Auto Disruptors Awards, with the all-electric EV9 winning ‘Research and Development Disruptor of the Year’ and its Head of Kia Global Design, Executive Vice President Karim Habib, named ‘Design Disruptor of the Year’.
These latest accolades follow on from previous Hyundai Motor Group successes, including 2022 wins in the ‘R&D Team of the Year’ and ‘Powertrain of the Year’ categories, as well as individual honors for Executive Chair Euisun Chung - named ‘Visionary of the Year’ in 2022 – and Chief Creative Officer Luc Donckerwolke – named ‘Designer of the Year’ in 2023. Announced during an event at Newsweek HQ in New York, the World’s Greatest Auto Disruptors Awards recognize those driving fundamental, transformative change with measurable real-world results.
A central figure in Kia’s success since his arrival in 2019, EVP Karim Habib is the driving force behind the brand’s award-winning Opposites United design philosophy. Taking inspiration from the contrasts found in nature and humanity, Opposites United shapes the exterior, interior, color, and materials employed across all new Kia models, and is particularly evident in the striking styling of the all-electric EV9.
“It is important that design remains authentic and true to our brand values. At Kia, an innovative and forward-thinking mindset is an intrinsic quality, essential for providing relevant and meaningful products and experiences. We want our brand to provide environmentally responsible mobility for all; and we want our brand to be a symbol of innovation and progressive solutions.”
Winner of Kia’s second award of the evening, for ‘Research and Development Disruptor of the Year’, the Kia EV9 features multiple innovative R&D features including 800V architecture, Over The Air (OTA)[1] update technology, and a drag coefficient of just 0.28 - despite its available 7.8 inches of ground clearance and seven-seat capacity. With an affordable entry price and an EPA-estimated 304-mile range on the Light Long Range
RWD[2], the Kia EV9 brings next generation technology, luxury, and efficiency to more buyers than ever before.
Over-the-Air features and updates may require an additional cost and may vary by model, model year, and trim level. Features, specifications, and fees are subject to change. Kia Connect subscription is required and Kia Connect terms and conditions apply.
[2] Based on combined (city/highway) EPA estimates on a full battery charge. Actual range will vary with options, driving conditions, driving habits, vehicle maintenance, charging practice, battery age, weather, temperature and your vehicle’s condition. Battery capacity will decrease with time and use. For more information on range, please see www.fueleconomy.gov
