Kia Motors has recently announced the appointment of John Buckingham as the Head of Kia Next Design Exterior Group. With a vision to shape the future of mobility, Kia aims to lead the industry through its design philosophy of ‘Opposites United.’ In order to achieve this goal, Karim Habib, the Executive Vice President and Head of the Kia Global Design Center, has strategically chosen new leadership to reinforce the brand’s design department.
Kia’s commitment to innovation and its pursuit of excellence in design have taken a significant leap forward with the appointment of John Buckingham as the Head of Kia Next Design Exterior Group. This strategic move is part of Kia’s broader initiative to be at the forefront of shaping the future of mobility.
In his new role, John Buckingham will collaborate closely with Vice President Teck Koun Kim, who was appointed as the Head of Kia Next Design Group earlier this year. Together, they will oversee the exterior, interior, and CMF (Color, Material, and Finish) design for the entire range of Kia vehicles. This comprehensive approach to design ensures a harmonious integration of aesthetics, functionality, and customer experience across the brand’s lineup.
Teck Koun Kim, expressing his confidence in John Buckingham’s abilities, stated, “Kia is committed to accelerating its efforts to innovate and respond to the rapidly changing market environment. By recruiting external talent like John Buckingham, who brings valuable experiences from premium brands and startups, we expect to further enhance our design work at the Kia Global Design Center.”
John Buckingham’s extensive background in the design departments of prestigious luxury brands, including Bentley, BMW, and Faraday Future, adds a wealth of expertise to Kia’s design team. His previous accomplishments include spearheading the final development and market introduction of the FF91, Faraday Future’s electric flagship vehicle.
By leveraging his diverse experiences and understanding of the luxury segment, John Buckingham will undoubtedly contribute to Kia’s innovative design endeavors. His appointment signifies Kia’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of automotive design and creating vehicles that resonate with customers on a deeper level.
Kia’s design philosophy of ‘Opposites United’ underscores their dedication to finding harmony between conflicting elements, blending innovation with tradition, and embracing the future while staying true to their roots. John Buckingham’s appointment reinforces this vision and highlights Kia’s determination to lead the industry in both aesthetics and technological advancements.
Kia’s appointment of John Buckingham as the Head of Kia Next Design Exterior Group marks a significant milestone in the brand’s pursuit of excellence in automotive design. With a clear focus on shaping the future of mobility, Kia aims to deliver innovative and captivating vehicles that redefine the driving experience. By harnessing the collective expertise of its design team, Kia is poised to make a lasting impact in the automotive industry, setting new standards for design, performance, and sustainability.
