Before the Detroit Auto Show gets underway, the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) takes place in Las Vegas. What does an electronics show have in common with cars? A lot, and Kia has released a few teaser images of its new EV concept that'll debut there. The official debut is on January 9, but Kia is already telling us this new concept will not only feature autonomous driving technologies and cutting-edge interfaces, it'll also be the world's first to have in-car 5G connection.

But take a closer look at the image from the car's rear and you'll quickly notice the car's name: Niro EV. The Niro gasoline-engined and plug-in hybrid crossovers are already on sale in the US, and Kia has previously hinted a fully electric variant was in the works. Well, here it is, at least in concept form. But it's clear Kia is also using this concept to showcase new things like a never-seen-before-human-machine interface (HMI) and an advanced new 'motion graphic' lighting system. Both technologies preview upcoming market potential. Kia will also be displaying three interactive, cockpit-style exhibits with the purpose of showing how it plans to incorporate new technologies "to enhance communication and interaction between occupants and vehicles."

Welcome to 21st century car production. "Virtual reality, self-driving cars, and full vehicle connectivity were all once considered technologies of the distant future. 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," said Dr. Woong-cheol Yang, Vice Chairman and Head of Hyundai-Kia R&D Center.
Check out all Kia EV models.