Discover How the 2024 Kia EV9 Can Illuminate Its Bumper with a Dazzling Display

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If you have only glimpsed the 2024 Kia EV9 in images or encountered it in person at the recent New York Auto Show, chances are you’ve been captivated by the vehicle’s innovative lighting feature on its frontal bumper. Nestled within the vast LED headlights are small constellations of light, creating a seamless transition from the headlights to the painted plastic encasing. According to explanations from Kia’s representatives, the implementation of this feature is surprisingly straightforward.

Contrary to the appearance of a cluster of miniature lights attached to the car’s front end at a distance, the sprinkling of light effect is achieved by Kia by using translucent plastic in that area of the bumper, painting it, and then utilizing a laser to carve out tiny shapes from the paint. Concealed within the bumper is an array of LEDs that beam through these minute shapes in various patterns, which can be selected through the vehicle’s primary infotainment system.

Take a closer look at the lighting effect and the infotainment screen used to control it. Andrew P. Collins

Upon launch, there will be five distinct display modes (or patterns) for these lights, with strong hints from two of Kia’s spokespersons that more could be accessible later through remote updates.

During the EV9 unveiling event, I had the chance to speak with Kia’s Senior Exterior Designer Berk Erner, and he shared that the lighting effect was envisioned in a very early design sketch. Once engineers confirmed its feasibility to his team, it swiftly became a definitive element of the vehicle’s aesthetics. The design process for the EV9 commenced before COVID-19 emerged as a public concern, and considerable deliberation was invested in determining the final lighting design for the vehicle, as per his insights.

The illuminating spectacle of the EV9, ingeniously labeled “Lighting Pattern,” is accessible on the GT-line trim and above. Pricing details are yet to be disclosed, but the vehicle is anticipated to hit the market by year-end.

Upon close inspection, you’ll notice that the lighting apertures are formed as tiny triangles. Andrew P. Collins

This design element is remarkably creative, certain to impress both neighbors and family members of EV9 owners. However, those inclined towards practicality might wonder about the potential repair costs if the bumper is accidentally damaged.

To be faced with the task of fixing a cracked front of an EV9 is a scenario best avoided for numerous reasons. Beyond the lighting aspect, the bumper houses an array of sensors and adjustable aerodynamic flaps … suggests that the repainting process won’t be straightforward.

Explore the EV9 appearance without the lighting effect. <em>Andrew P. Collins</em>

The chances are slim that an auto body workshop could re-engrave these small patterns onto the bumper post-repainting, but it seems that the illuminated part is quite petite. Moreover, it is segregated from the other body-colored surfaces by decorative trim components. Supposing you accidentally harm that part individually, I believe you can obtain a pre-coated replacement component directly from Kia.

Meanwhile, I am eager to witness some of these vehicles on the streets. Additionally, I am always thrilled to observe automotive designers experimenting with fresh techniques to add a dash of excitement to a brand-new automobile.

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