Kia has won the 2024 Good Design® Award for its E-Ground sustainable mobility experience center in Quito, Ecuador, the automaker said, marking international recognition for a project aimed at promoting electric vehicle adoption and environmental awareness in Latin America.
The 1,400-square-metre E-Ground facility is Kia’s first Sustainable Mobility Experience Center in the region. It was recognised by The Chicago Athenaeum: Museum of Architecture and Design, which has presented the Good Design® Awards since 1950 to honour excellence in design, functionality and environmental responsibility.
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E-Ground is structured around three interactive zones designed to educate visitors on sustainability and future mobility. The Planet Zone focuses on environmental awareness and ecosystem balance, the Energy Zone presents electrification and energy-efficiency technologies, and the Mobility Zone showcases Kia’s electric vehicles and purpose-built vehicles. A central sculptural element — a white tree with circular LED lighting — anchors the space and symbolises the link between technological innovation and environmental stewardship.
The architectural layout is inspired by the Fibonacci sequence, guiding visitors through the zones in a continuous flow. Kia said the design reflects its “Opposites United” philosophy, combining natural forms with advanced technology.
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Sustainability was a key criterion in the construction of the facility. Kia used Eco Bricks with around 25% lower carbon dioxide emissions than conventional materials, as well as ECOPact concrete, which can reduce emissions by up to 50%. The building also incorporates Pavegen kinetic tiles that generate electricity from foot traffic, alongside LED lighting, solar panels and a rainwater reuse system.
“This project reflects Kia’s vision of sustainable mobility and our commitment to creating meaningful experiences for communities in Latin America,” said Fiorella Farje, head of marketing for Kia Central and South America.
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The center is located near several major universities in Quito, a deliberate choice aimed at supporting educational programmes, workshops and interactive sessions for students and future professionals in sustainability and engineering. Steve Lee, president of Kia Central and South America, said the facility “will help shape the future of transportation in Latin America.”