Kia’s PV5 WKNDR Concept has won a Silver Award in the Automotive & Transportation category at the International Design Excellence Awards (IDEA) 2025, one of the world’s most prestigious design competitions.
The PV5 WKNDR is inspired by Kia’s upcoming range of Purpose Built Vehicles (PBVs) and is designed around versatility and sustainability. Its standout feature, the ‘Gear Head’, is an off-board storage solution that doubles as a mobile pantry, offering outdoor enthusiasts space for gear or cooking facilities without reducing interior capacity.
Equipped with solar panels and hydro turbine wheels, the vehicle is capable of generating its own power even in remote, off-road settings. Inside, sustainable materials such as Nike Grind flooring, made from recycled sneakers, highlight Kia’s eco-focused design approach.
Commenting on the award, Karim Habib, Head of Kia Global Design, said:
“Recognition from IDEA is a great honor, demonstrating the impact and value of Kia’s ‘Opposites United’ philosophy in guiding our future design vision. Awards such as this recognize the dedication of our global team but also motivate us to continue to innovate and further strengthen Kia’s commitment to bringing products that are relevant and meaningful to our customers.”
What is IDEA?
The International Design Excellence Awards (IDEA), presented by the Industrial Designers Society of America, is considered one of the world’s top three design honors alongside Germany’s Red Dot and iF Awards. Founded nearly 50 years ago, IDEA evaluates entries based on innovation, aesthetics, benefit to users, benefit to society, and benefit to the brand.
Its multidisciplinary panel of over 40 judges has previously recognized influential designs across industries including automotive, branding, technology and lifestyle.
The PV5 WKNDR Concept’s win places Kia alongside some of the most forward-looking brands in design, underscoring the company’s ambition to lead not only in mobility solutions but also in sustainable innovation.
