What's all this about?

The Consumer Electronics Show (CES) is due to take place in Las Vegas, and where better to reveal an all-new battery-electric vehicle? So, that's precisely what Kia has decided to do, only... well, we're a little bit confused here.

How so?

In the build-up to these sort of big events, many teaser releases fly about and they're deliberately obfuscating and vague. The wording of this Kia release is no different, and yet the pictures seem to show us the name of this newcomer, as bold as brass at the bottom of the rear bumper.

Which is?

The Niro EV. Which is to say, this is the fully electric version of the existing petrol-electric hybrid SUV that Kia already sells. Inside the Niro EV, there's a 'never-seen-before human-machine interface (HMI)' and on the outside we have advanced new 'motion graphic' lighting. Both items preview technology coming to market on other Kias in the next few years. Beyond that, we have no more details on this shadowy newcomer as yet.

OK, what else will Kia show off at CES?

The brand's interactive 'Beyond Autonomous Driving' exhibits will show off its plans for vehicle autonomy and mobility in years to come. Among these cockpit-like exhibits will be advanced HMI systems, advanced driver assist technologies and the world's first in-car 5G connection.

Anything else?

"Virtual reality, self-driving cars and full vehicle connectivity were all once considered technologies of the distant future," said Dr Woong-cheol Yang, vice-chairman and head of Hyundai-Kia R&D Centre. "As they rapidly become a reality, Kia is exploring how to adapt these new technologies for its customers. At CES we will share our strategy and vision for future mobility, and exhibit a range of advanced technologies that our customers can look forward to."

Matt Robinson - 4 Jan 2018