Kia EV2 Concept integrates OEM 3D printed seat technology VoxelMatters

The Kia EV2 Concept is the latest electric vehicle with 3D printed seat components, backrests and a rear cushion, developed in collaboration with German additive manufacturing specialist OECHSLER. KIA doesn't even advertise the use of 3D printed parts; Rather, it should be seen as the only way to produce state-of-the-art seats for the latest vehicles.

Following previous implementations in vehicles such as the Porsche Mission R, the MINI Electric Pacesetter Formula E Safety Car and the Concept AMG GT XX, OECHSLER's seat structures can now be found in Kia's smallest electric concept to date. This increasing use of AM in concept vehicles remains significant as it is likely to be used in high-end production vehicles and will drive demand for technologies such as Carbon DLS and HP MJF in the automotive segment in the medium term. A similar trend is already emerging with bicycle seats.

The EV2's design includes fully removable front seatbacks made from a permeable thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) mesh. The design allows airflow and light to pass through and adapts to the vehicle's ambient lighting system. The external grille is visually expressive, while the internal structure is engineered to offer varying levels of firmness tailored to Kia's driver comfort specifications.

According to OECHSLER, the rear seat cushion in the EV2 Concept is the largest 3D printed seat cushion that has been installed in a vehicle to date. The cushion has been custom color-matched to the vehicle's exterior and has smoothed surfaces to meet premium interior standards. All printed parts are made of recyclable TPU, highlighting the focus on sustainability and functional design.

“3D printing allows us to provide tailored comfort, integrated aesthetics and sustainable production that cannot be achieved with traditional manufacturing,” said an OECHSLER spokesperson. “We are proud to contribute to Kia’s future mobility concepts.”

Beyond the additive components, the EV2 concept also emphasizes accessibility and urban adaptability. It has rear-hinged doors without a center pillar, allowing wide, unobstructed entry. When the rear seat is folded down, the front seats can be pushed back to create a lounge-like atmosphere in the interior. Despite being Kia's smallest electric vehicle, the EV2 features a multi-configurable interior and connected technology designed to support urban lifestyles.

The exterior design continues the company's electric design language with Kia's “Star Map” signature lighting and vertical daytime running lights (DRLs). At the same time, robust fenders and geometric glass elements contribute to a technically styled, compact shape.