Geneva LIVE: Imagine by Kia -- an EV concept

Kia takes a stab at an all-electric crossover concept. 

This is the "Imagine by Kia" concept, a technological tour-de-force which made its world debut at the Geneva Motor Show Tuesday.

Gregory Guillaume, vice president of design for Kia Motors Europe, said in the announcement that the concept is designed "[...]to not only get your pulse racing, but to also signpost our holistic and emotional approach to electrification."

He went on:

Today's drivers understandably have many questions about electric cars. They're concerned about range, the recharging network, and whether electric cars will still be dynamic and engaging to drive. So, when we first started thinking about this concept and imagining what its role would be, we knew that the best way to answer those questions and address those concerns was by approaching electrification purely from an emotional point of view.

As the purpose of a concept is more to provide context for a company's vision of the future, it's no surprise that the Imagine comes somewhat light on details. Kia says the concept rides on a dedicated EV platform. The compact drivetrain is backed up by an induction-charged battery for plugless convenience.

Outside of that, technical information was rather lacking. The focus instead is on the CUV's looks, which aren't too bad. In fact, if you showed this to us without telling us what it was, we'd guess it was a concept for a Stinger-based crossover, which is no bad thing. The panoramic groof and glass hatch are not feasible production elements, but they certainly look cool.

Speaking of, Kia went to great lengths to deliver an out-of-this-world interior for the Imagine. The centerpiece is a dashboard incorporating 21 distinct, synchronized screens. They're purely for show here, as Kia says they'll simply rotate displays of Kia's concept cars from years past, but we can't help but think it might inspire the company to design and sell a car equipped with more screens than the average middle-class family home.

We expect we'll hear more about production-intent plans for EV models from Kia in short order. Stay tuned.