- 80 Years Strong: Kia is celebrating its 80th anniversary, having started as a bicycle parts maker in 1944.
- New Concept Revealed: The “Vision Meta Turismo” concept features an AR windshield and “Gamer” driving mode.
- Heritage Exhibition: A new “Legacy of Movement” exhibition in Korea showcases 80 years of history across eight unique zones.
- Future Vision: The event highlighted Kia’s transformation into a sustainable mobility leader.
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From Bicycles to “Meta Turismo” – Kia Celebrates 80 Years
Eighty years is a long time. In 1944, Kia started as “Kyungsung Precision Industry,” making bicycle parts. Today, they are a global giant selling three million vehicles a year. To mark this massive milestone, Kia has thrown a birthday party in Korea that looks back at their history and, more importantly, hints at a wild future.
The celebration took place at Kia Vision Square in Yongin, attended by top executives like Hyundai Motor Group Executive Chair Euisun Chung. But the real star of the show wasn’t a person – it was a car.
The Vision Meta Turismo Concept
The Kia Vision Meta Turismo concept is all about the digital future of speed. Kia calls it a “vision for a new era of mobility” . It pays homage to the cool, long-distance touring cars of the 1960s but updates the idea for the digital age.
- The Vibe: It combines “dynamic driving performance” with the comfort of a “lounge-inspired interior”.
- The Tech: The coolest feature is the AR Head-Up Display (HUD). It uses smart glass to project virtual graphics that look like they are floating in 3D above the road.
- Three Modes: The steering wheel interface changes based on your mood. You can switch between Speedster, Dreamer, and Gamer modes.
A Walk Through History: The “Legacy of Movement” Exhibition
Kia also opened a massive exhibition called “The Legacy of Movement” at Kia Vision Square. If you are a car history nerd, this is gold. They have split the last 80 years into eight zones, including:
- Wheel: Where it started—the 3000-Liho bicycle and the K-360 three-wheeler.
- Evolution: The workhorses, like the Kia Bongo truck.
- Identity: The cars that put Kia on the global map, like the Pride and the Stinger.
- Inspiration: Cultural icons like the Kia Soul.
Key Milestones You Might Not Know
- 1944: Founded as Kyungsung Precision Industry.
- 1952: Officially adopted the name “Kia” and built their first bike, the 3000-Liho.
- 1974: Launched their first four-wheeled passenger car, the Brisa.
- 1993: Launched the Sportage, widely considered the world’s first urban SUV.
- 2005-2006: A pivotal moment—Euisun Chung implemented a design management strategy and hired Peter Schreyer, defining Kia as a design-driven brand.
80 Years and Counting
Looking back at Kia’s history is like watching a movie about determination. They went from making simple bicycle parts to building complex electric vehicles with augmented reality windshields. The “Vision Meta Turismo” isn’t just a cool design exercise; it’s a statement that Kia intends to keep pushing boundaries for the next 80 years. As they blend their heritage with futuristic tech, one thing is clear: Kia is no longer just “following” the car industry—they are trying to lead it.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: When was Kia founded?
A: Kia was founded in 1944. It was originally called Kyungsung Precision Industry before changing its name to Kia in 1952.
Q: What is the Kia Vision Meta Turismo?
A: It is a concept car unveiled for the 80th anniversary. It represents a new era of mobility, combining performance driving with a lounge-like interior and advanced digital interaction.
Q: What are the unique driving modes in the Vision Meta Turismo?
A: The steering wheel interface offers three digital modes: Speedster, Dreamer, and Gamer. These modes change the driving experience using AR technology.
Q: Where is the Kia 80th Anniversary Exhibition located?
A: The exhibition, titled “The Legacy of Movement,” is held at Kia Vision Square in Yongin, Korea. It will be open to visitors until 2029.
