Kia’s EV4 GT Clay Concept Is the Ultimate Tribute to Rafael Nadal
Taking clay textures from the court to the car surface.
With 63 clay-court titles under his belt, Rafael Nadal’s reputation as the undisputed “King of Clay” has brought his legacy beyond tennis to fashion and lifestyle. Now, Korean car brand Kia is honoring the acclaimed player with a one-of-a-kind concept befitting his nickname.
The full-scale EV4 GT clay concept features a top-to-bottom transformation, where the doors, bonnet, and windows are all dressed in a red-orange tone. Enhancing the court inspiration, white lines run across the angular edges, matching the white inscribed signature on the back and Kia logo.
In an official statement, Rafael Nadal shared, “Kia has been by my side throughout my career, through all the highs and the challenges. Receiving this tribute, created from the material that has defined so much of my journey, is incredibly meaningful. It is a special reminder of everything we have shared, and I am honored by this gesture.”
Commemorating a partnership that has lasted more than two decades, the clay concept provides a joint tribute to the player’s career as well as the innovation Kia has focused on over that time. A closer look at the car reveals how these two worlds have been brought together, with a blend of tennis court clay and automotive modelling clay. This combination gives the car a unique texture that’s tactile while subtly matted.
As the model reinforces Kia’s commitment to “movement that inspires,” Soohang Chang, President and CEO of Kia Europe, shared, “Rafael’s determination and resilience have inspired tennis players and fans around the world, and those values have been central to our partnership since 2004.”
“This tribute celebrates Rafael’s remarkable achievements and the journey we have shared. Through tennis and our wider sporting partnerships, Kia aims to bring people together and inspire future generations,” he adds.
Discover the car in the images shot at the Rafa Nadal Academy in Mallorca.
To find out more about the Kia EV4 GT, head to the brand’s website now.
