In the EV5, Kia has introduced a front bench seat option, at least for the Chinese market. However, this design is reminiscent of older cars, but reimagined for the electric age. There’s a fold down middle section of the front bench setup that can be used as an arm rest or small table. The front seating area is approached uniquely in this way using a different approach to the layout of the bucket seat that we have all become used to in modern cars. Because it offers potentially more versatility and another kind of comfort, especially for families. But it does leave certain safety questions, different driving scenarios, and whether or not consumers will readily embrace such a major departure from the norm. Front bench seats in a modern EV are raising questions about interior design innovation and what that may mean for future vehicle layouts.