Kia EV2 Concept integrates 3D printed seat technology from OECHSLER
Additive manufacturing firm supplies removable backrests and record-size rear cushion as part of EV design shift
The Kia EV2 Concept has become the latest electric vehicle to incorporate 3D-printed seating components, featuring backrests and a rear cushion developed in collaboration with German additive manufacturing specialist OECHSLER. KIA does not 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 newest vehicles.
Following earlier implementations in vehicles such as the Porsche Mission R, MINI Electric Pacesetter Formula E safety car, and Concept AMG GT XX, OECHSLER’s seat structures have now appeared in Kia’s smallest electric concept to date. This growing use of AM in concept vehicles still matters, as it will likely translate into adoption in high-end production vehicles as well, driving demand for technologies such as Carbon DLS and HP MJF in the automotive segment in the medium-term future. A similar trend is already taking place in bicycle seats.
The EV2’s design includes fully removable front seat backrests constructed from a permeable thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) lattice. The design allows airflow and light to pass through, aligning with the vehicle’s ambient lighting system. The outer lattice is visually expressive, while the inner structure is engineered to deliver differentiated hardness levels tailored to Kia’s driver comfort specifications.
The rear seat cushion in the EV2 Concept, according to OECHSLER, is the largest 3D-printed seat cushion installed in a vehicle to date. The cushion was custom color-matched to the car’s exterior and finished with smoothed surfaces to align with premium interior standards. All printed parts use recyclable TPU, underscoring a focus on sustainability and functional design.
“3D printing allows us to deliver customized comfort, integrated aesthetics, and sustainable production in a way traditional manufacturing can’t match,” said an OECHSLER spokesperson. “We’re proud to contribute to Kia’s future mobility concepts.”
Beyond the additive components, the EV2 Concept also emphasizes accessibility and urban adaptability. It features rear-hinged back doors with no central pillar, providing a wide, unobstructed entry. When the rear bench is folded, the front seats can slide back to create a lounge-like environment within the cabin. 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 form.
