Kia Motors America (KMA) has teamed up with DC Entertainment and Super Street magazine to create a head-turning Optima Hybrid inspired by Superman’s strength and unwavering care for planet Earth. Unveiled today at the 2013 Chicago Auto Show, this Optima Hybrid signals the continuation of a 10-month, eight vehicle partnership between Kia and DC Entertainment based on the iconic characters that make up the Justice League – Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, Green Lantern, The Flash, Aquaman and Cyborg. An eighth and final vehicle will be an amalgamation of all seven Super Heroes in one. Influenced by the artistry of comic book visionary, Jim Lee, the Justice League-inspired Kia vehicles serve as a force for good in the world by raising awareness of DC Entertainment’s “We Can Be Heroes” giving campaign, a relief effort to bring help and hope to people affected by drought and famine in the Horn of Africa.
“As the most recognized Super Hero in the world, Superman is a symbol of strength and integrity, making him the perfect character to join forces with Kia’s first-ever hybrid to create a customized ride powered by a robust and efficient powertrain,” said Michael Sprague, executive vice president, marketing and communications, KMA. “Each of our Justice League-inspired vehicles are remarkable collaborations between the automotive and comic book worlds, and all for a worthy cause. To that, Kia is very proud to be partnering with DC Entertainment to raise awareness for the ‘We Can Be Heroes’ campaign.”
Working together, Kia, DC Entertainment and Super Street magazine designed and built the Superman-themed Optima Hybrid, a one-of-a-kind Kia that represents the strength and fortitude of the world’s most iconic Super Hero. The Optima has been widened with custom fenders, giving the vehicle a muscular appearance, and it features an adjustable suspension system that can raise and lower the vehicle with the push of a button. The stylized color scheme on the hood spotlights Superman’s unmistakable chest emblem while an eye-catching red paint design extends to the trunk, evoking the look of his crimson cape. The beveled front grille resembles Superman’s belt, and the red headlights glow with the same intensity of his heat vision.
The interior of the Optima Hybrid is upholstered with custom materials chosen for their unique appearance and texture to reflect Superman’s impenetrable battle armor. And Superman’s iconic “S” shield is integrated into the seats and steering wheel to give it the right heroic touch.
“This joint effort to raise awareness for the ‘We Can Be Heroes’ giving campaign through Justice League-inspired cars has proven to be a huge hit with both comic fans and car aficionados,” stated Amit Desai, senior vice president of franchise management, DC Entertainment. “We’re excited to continue our partnership with Kia to bring the latest addition, the Superman-inspired Optima Hybrid, to fans in Chicago and beyond.”
As Kia’s sales have grown, so has the company’s role as a responsible corporate citizen, and the Superman-themed Optima furthers those efforts with two video screens in the front-seat headrests that will raise awareness about the worst hunger crisis in 60 years by featuring a custom “We Can Be Heroes” video that demonstrates how one small act can make anyone a hero.
Source: Kia
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