Embrace Electric: Kia Canada EV5 Launch

Brand and Product Launches Experiential and Events

A first look, long before the first drive

The Kia EV5 launch marked a significant milestone for Kia Canada – a vehicle exclusive to the Canadian market within North America. Instead of waiting for a traditional auto show debut, Strategic Objectives created a standalone reveal that introduced the EV5 through design, context and relevance – giving media and influencers a reason to pay attention early.

The challenge

Building interest without the usual hooks

With the Kia EV5 more than a year from arrival and only a single pre-production model available, the typical launch levers weren’t an option. No test drives, limited specs, and no broader rollout to support momentum. Our challenge was to create a launch that felt complete on its own – generating early interest and far-reaching coverage across both automotive and lifestyle audiences.

The solution

A uniquely Canadian electrifying launch event

We built a content-first reveal that focused on what could be experienced with the EV5 now, including design and innovation. Key elements included:

Bringing together automotive media alongside lifestyle editors and creators, broadening the story beyond traditional automotive coverage
Partnering with Toronto-based creators to produce content designed for amplification beyond the event
Designing the space around Kia’s “Bold for Nature” philosophy, expressed through subtle environmental cues
Showcasing 10 environmentally mindful materials used in the interior of the Kia EV9
Featuring a colour wall highlighting the EV5 palette, including new colours Frost Blue and Magma Red
Carrying Frost Blue across key elements of the space, creating a consistent visual identity
Curating a menu that blended Korean and Canadian influences, grounding the experience in both heritage and market