John Buckingham, Leiter der Kia Next Design Exterior Group. Foto: Kia
John Buckingham is the new head of the Kia Next Design Exterior Group. The move further expands the brand’s design capabilities and underscores its ambition to play a leading role in future mobility based on its well-received electric vehicle portfolio. In January, Vice President Teck Koun Kim was appointed head of the Kia Next Design Group. He is responsible for the exterior, interior and CMF (colors, materials, finishes) design of the entire Kia model range. He has been supported by John Buckingham in his role as head of Kia exterior design since June 1.
The Kia design philosophy “Opposites United” forms the basis for the brand’s claim to leadership in shaping future mobility. To realize these ambitions, Karim Habib, executive vice president and head of the Kia Global Design Center, has introduced an innovative and proactive organizational culture that empowers the brand’s designers.
Buckingham will lead the direction and execution of Kia’s future exterior design, supporting the brand’s ambitions to set leading design standards in the global automotive industry. With his extensive experience in electric vehicle design, Buckingham will make a significant contribution to the exterior design of upcoming Kia models, including all electric vehicles.
“I am honored to join the Kia Next Design Exterior Group,” said Buckingham. “I look forward to working with the highly talented design team to further define the progressive ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy and apply this approach to the exterior design of upcoming Kia vehicles. Together, we will build on the highly impressive current products and work toward the next generation of design expression.”
Buckingham is a highly respected talent in the global automotive industry. Prior to joining Kia, he held senior design roles at luxury or premium brands Bentley Motors, BMW and Faraday Future. At Faraday Future, he was responsible for the final development and launch of the brand’s flagship FF91 and led the design of future models. www.kia.com
