When attending the Chicago Auto Show it can be overwhelming. I’ve been a few years now and I enjoy it immensely. My favorite part of the show is seeing all the concept cars. These futuristic cars that could eventually be put into production or are just there to show off new technology and visually stimulate your mind. This year I attended Kia’s preview of their concept car: The Kia Tail’ster.
I was already intrigued when @kia tweeted out a special sneak peek earlier in the day:
Now let’s get down to the nitty gritty. What makes this car unique? What makes this concept car something I actually want to see put into production? What is about this vehicle in particular that is innovative? Let me show you.
With its bold design, fully retractable canvas roof and smartly integrated electric all-wheel-drive system, the turbocharged Trail’ster takes Kia’s iconic Soul to a new level of expression, efficiency and capability
The Trail’ster features a stylish full-length, weatherproof rollback canvas roof to create an open-sky environment for occupants to enjoy the outdoors even before reaching their chosen high ground. This fully retractable cover also helps lighten the vehicle and lowers the center of gravity, promoting higher efficiency and improved dynamics. Integrated roof rack fittings with aluminum cross rails allow adventurers to tote mountain bikes or snowboards with ease.
My favorite feature by far was the new rollback canvas roof. Think of the possibilities! We are an adventurous family and I can see us packing up and going up to the Smoky Mountains for adventures or taking friends who are musicians down to Nashville for a show. The possibilities are endless!
While at CAS I was also able to spend a few minutes with the designers of this new concept car and learned a lot. For example did you know it only takes about 9-10 months from idea to actual concept? So many little details and a great vehicle for anyone in less than a year. These guys ROCK! They also stressed that “Show cars are not that crazy far away from reality.” Another fun fact is that A trip to Korea and a late night show about wild boars inspired the Kia SOUL.
"I like that we were able to toughen up aspects of the SOUL"-Designer #KiaTrailster #CAS15 pic.twitter.com/vjWwWVCtr2
— kasandria (@SBellasWays) February 12, 2015
One more feature I want to stress is the advanced LED technology that gives the Trail’Ster it’s unique look:
The Trail’ster’s use of advanced LED technology creates a strong and unique lighting identity from top to bottom, front to back. Upfront, the signature Kia grille bars extend through the K900-style projector headlamps to create a full-width frontal graphic. And below, expressive fog light elements give the vehicle a bold personality while providing additional wattage for illuminating off-the-beaten-track excursions. The Trail’ster’s rear view takes on a tough-looking appearance framed by LED taillamps that are built into durable, ruggedized light housings. Highlighting its off-road prowess, the Trail’ster wears aluminum skidplates around the entire vehicle, providing a protective armor to shield the undercarriage from jagged rocks and ice.
Bottom line is if you like this concept then let Kia know!
Let @kia know that you want the #KiaTrailster concept to be put into production! #CAS15 #CASlive pic.twitter.com/v82zD2zuL4
— kasandria (@SBellasWays) February 12, 2015
***Disclosure: I attended #CAS15 Event My flight, lodgings, and expenses were covered by CAS All opinions are 100% mine. ***
About Kas
