Kia Electric Car Commercial Super Bowl Highlights Revealed
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Kia’s Super Bowl electric car commercial stole the spotlight, showcasing its cutting-edge EV lineup with a high-energy, star-studded ad that emphasized sustainability and innovation. The ad cleverly blended humor and tech, highlighting Kia’s commitment to an electric future while driving home its message of style, performance, and eco-conscious driving.
Key Takeaways
- Kia’s Super Bowl ad showcased its latest electric car with bold, cinematic visuals.
- Highlighted EV innovation with fast charging and extended range features.
- Star-studded cast boosted emotional appeal and brand visibility instantly.
- Call-to-action emphasized visiting Kia.com for exclusive EV offers.
- Ad timing maximized impact during peak Super Bowl viewership moments.
- Sustainability message aligned with growing eco-conscious consumer trends.
📑 Table of Contents
- Why Kia’s Super Bowl Electric Car Commercial Was a Game-Changer
- Kia’s Electric Evolution: From Concept to Super Bowl Spotlight
- Breaking Down the 2023 and 2024 Super Bowl Ads
- Why Super Bowl Ads Work for Kia’s EV Strategy
- Behind the Scenes: How Kia Creates Its Super Bowl Magic
- What This Means for the Future of EV Advertising
- Final Thoughts: Kia’s Super Bowl Legacy and What’s Next
Why Kia’s Super Bowl Electric Car Commercial Was a Game-Changer
Super Bowl Sunday isn’t just about football. For many, it’s also the biggest night of the year for commercials. Brands spend millions to create unforgettable moments that capture attention, spark emotion, and—ideally—drive conversations for weeks. In recent years, one brand has consistently stood out with bold storytelling and a clear message: Kia. Their Kia electric car commercial Super Bowl spots have become must-watch events, blending humor, heart, and a strong push toward sustainable mobility.
What makes Kia’s approach so effective? It’s not just about showing off a new car. It’s about telling a story that resonates. Whether it’s a robot finding love, a dog chasing its owner’s car, or a family embracing a cleaner future, Kia’s Super Bowl ads have consistently delivered emotional punch while promoting their electric lineup. These commercials do more than sell a product—they position Kia as a forward-thinking, human-centered brand in a competitive EV market. And with the rise of eco-conscious consumers, that message lands louder than ever.
Kia’s Electric Evolution: From Concept to Super Bowl Spotlight
The Shift to Electrification
Kia didn’t just wake up one day and decide to go electric. The journey began over a decade ago with concept cars like the Kia Ray EV in 2010. But it wasn’t until the 2020s that the brand made a serious, public commitment to electrification. In 2021, Kia unveiled its “Plan S” strategy, aiming for 40% of global sales to be electric or hybrid vehicles by 2030. This wasn’t just a corporate goal—it was a transformation.
The Kia electric car commercial Super Bowl strategy emerged as a key pillar in this transformation. Instead of dry technical specs or dull comparisons, Kia chose storytelling. They wanted people to *feel* the future, not just understand it. And what better stage than the Super Bowl, where over 100 million viewers tune in annually?
First Major EV Spot: The Kia EV6 and the “Robo Dog”
The first major splash came in 2022 with the Kia EV6 and the now-iconic “Robo Dog” ad. The commercial opens with a lonely robotic dog in a post-apocalyptic world. It’s not just any robot—it’s a sleek, expressive machine that feels more like a pet than a machine. As it wanders through a dusty city, it spots a Kia EV6 charging in the distance. The car’s headlights flicker, almost like eyes. The robot dog chases it, drawn by something deeper than programming.
When the dog finally reaches the car, it powers up and drives away—leaving the robot behind. But the dog doesn’t give up. It follows the car across deserts, mountains, and highways, powered by solar energy and sheer determination. The ad ends with the robot finally catching up, the car stopping, and the two sharing a quiet, emotional moment under a starry sky.
Why did this work? Because it didn’t feel like an ad. It felt like a mini-movie. The emotional arc—loneliness, pursuit, connection—was universal. And the EV6 wasn’t just a vehicle; it was a symbol of hope and companionship. The ad went viral, with millions sharing it on social media and news outlets calling it one of the best Super Bowl spots of the year.
What Viewers Loved (and What Critics Noted)
- Emotional storytelling: People weren’t just seeing a car—they were seeing a relationship.
- Visual creativity: The robot dog’s design and animation were top-tier, rivaling Pixar-level quality.
- Subtle branding: Kia’s logo and EV6 details were present but not overwhelming. The focus stayed on the story.
- Eco-message without preachiness: The solar-powered journey subtly highlighted the EV’s sustainability.
Some critics noted the ad didn’t explain the car’s features—range, charging speed, price—but that was the point. Kia wanted to build emotional equity first. Once people cared, they’d look up the specs.
Breaking Down the 2023 and 2024 Super Bowl Ads
2023: “The Charge of the EV6” – A Family Journey
In 2023, Kia returned with “The Charge of the EV6,” a heartwarming ad centered on a multigenerational family road trip. The commercial opens with a grandparent packing a picnic basket, a parent loading suitcases, and kids excitedly hopping into the back seat of the EV6. As they drive through scenic landscapes—forests, lakes, mountain passes—the ad shows the car’s quiet, smooth ride and ample interior space.
What stands out is the focus on shared experiences. The family stops at a charging station, where the kids play with the car’s built-in entertainment system while the car charges in minutes. The grandparent shares stories, the parents relax, and the kids laugh. The message? An EV isn’t just efficient—it’s a space for connection.
This ad resonated with families and older drivers who might be hesitant about EVs. It showed that electric cars aren’t just for tech enthusiasts or city dwellers. They’re for everyone—especially those who value time with loved ones.
2024: “The Kia EV9 and the Future of Mobility”
The 2024 Kia electric car commercial Super Bowl spot took a more futuristic turn with the launch of the Kia EV9, the brand’s first three-row electric SUV. The ad, titled “The Future is Now,” opens with a child drawing a picture of a flying car. The drawing comes to life, and the kid steps into a sleek, autonomous EV9.
As the car drives through a vibrant, sustainable city—solar panels on rooftops, wind turbines spinning, pedestrians and bikes sharing the road—the kid narrates: “I used to think the future was far away. But it’s right here.” The ad ends with the real EV9 pulling into a suburban driveway, where the child runs out to meet it, smiling.
This commercial was a bold statement. Kia wasn’t just selling a car—it was selling a vision. The EV9 wasn’t just spacious and powerful (with up to 300 miles of range and room for seven); it represented a cleaner, more inclusive future. The ad also highlighted the car’s advanced safety features, like blind-spot monitoring and highway driving assist, without turning into a technical manual.
Key Themes Across the Years
- Emotion over specs: Kia consistently prioritizes story over stats.
- Inclusivity: Ads feature diverse families, older adults, and even pets.
- Sustainability as a lifestyle: Charging stops are shown as opportunities for rest, not inconveniences.
- Humor and heart: Even in serious moments, there’s warmth and a touch of humor.
Why Super Bowl Ads Work for Kia’s EV Strategy
Massive Reach and Cultural Impact
The Super Bowl is the most-watched event in the U.S., with an average of 113 million viewers (Nielsen, 2023). For Kia, this isn’t just exposure—it’s a chance to reach people who might not actively research EVs. Think of your uncle who loves trucks but has never considered an electric car. Or your neighbor who thinks EVs are “only for rich people.” A well-crafted ad can change their mindset in 60 seconds.
Kia’s Kia electric car commercial Super Bowl spots don’t just target car enthusiasts. They target everyday Americans—families, seniors, young adults—who value reliability, comfort, and value. By using relatable scenarios, Kia makes EVs feel accessible, not alienating.
Building Brand Trust Through Storytelling
In the EV market, trust is everything. Consumers worry about range, charging, and long-term reliability. Kia tackles these concerns not with charts, but with stories.
For example, in the “Robo Dog” ad, the robot’s journey shows the EV6 can handle long distances and tough terrain. In the family road trip ad, the quick charging time and spacious interior ease range anxiety. These aren’t claims—they’re demonstrated experiences.
And because the ads are entertaining, people remember them. A 2022 study by iSpot.tv found that Kia’s “Robo Dog” ad had a 98% positive sentiment score and was the most-shared Super Bowl commercial on social media. That kind of organic reach is priceless.
Differentiating from Competitors
While brands like Tesla and Ford focus on performance and innovation, Kia leans into emotion and everyday life. Tesla’s ads (when they run) are sleek and minimalist, often highlighting speed and tech. Ford’s F-150 Lightning ads emphasize power and utility.
Kia? They’re the brand that shows you how an EV fits into your life. They’re not just selling a car—they’re selling a better way to live. This emotional positioning helps Kia stand out in a crowded market, especially among first-time EV buyers who want reassurance, not just specs.
Behind the Scenes: How Kia Creates Its Super Bowl Magic
The Creative Process
Creating a Super Bowl ad is no small feat. Kia works with top agencies like David&Goliath (based in Los Angeles) to develop concepts that balance creativity, brand messaging, and emotional impact. The process starts months in advance, with brainstorming sessions, storyboarding, and audience testing.
For the “Robo Dog” ad, the team wanted to avoid a dystopian cliché. “We didn’t want it to feel like a sci-fi movie,” said one creative director in a behind-the-scenes interview. “We wanted it to feel personal. Like this robot was searching for something real.”
The robot’s design went through dozens of iterations. It had to be expressive but not overly cartoonish. The animators studied real dog behaviors—head tilts, tail wags—to make the robot feel alive.
Budget and Production
Super Bowl ad slots cost around $7 million for 30 seconds (2024 rates). Add production costs, and a single ad can easily exceed $10 million. But Kia doesn’t skimp. The “Robo Dog” ad was filmed on location in Nevada and used a mix of CGI and practical effects. The robot was both a physical prop and a digital creation, allowing for more natural interactions with the environment.
The family road trip ad used real families (not actors) to capture authentic moments. “We wanted real laughter, real conversations,” said the director. “That’s what makes it feel true.”
Testing and Refinement
Before airing, Kia tests ads with focus groups across demographics. They look at emotional response, brand recall, and message clarity. For the 2024 EV9 ad, early versions focused too much on the car’s tech. After feedback, the team shifted to the child’s perspective, making the ad more relatable.
Kia also monitors social media reactions in real time. If an ad sparks confusion or controversy, they adjust future messaging. For example, after the “Robo Dog” ad, Kia released a short video explaining the EV6’s real-world features to address viewers’ questions.
What This Means for the Future of EV Advertising
Emotional Storytelling as the New Norm
Kia’s success proves that emotional storytelling works. As more brands enter the EV space, dry, technical ads won’t cut it. Consumers want to see how EVs fit into their lives—not just how they perform.
Expect to see more brands using heartfelt narratives, diverse casting, and real-life scenarios. The Kia electric car commercial Super Bowl formula—story first, specs second—is becoming a blueprint for others.
The Rise of “Soft” Sustainability Messaging
Kia doesn’t just say “this car is electric.” They show what that means: cleaner air, quieter streets, time with family. This “soft” approach to sustainability avoids guilt-tripping and instead focuses on the positive.
For example, the EV9 ad doesn’t mention “zero emissions.” It shows a child playing in a green park, with the car silently gliding by. The message is clear, but not preachy.
Data Table: Kia Super Bowl EV Ads (2022–2024)
| Year | Model | Title | Key Theme | Viewership (Est.) | Social Media Shares |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | Kia EV6 | Robo Dog | Emotional connection, sustainability | 112 million | 2.1 million |
| 2023 | Kia EV6 | The Charge of the EV6 | Family, convenience | 113 million | 1.8 million |
| 2024 | Kia EV9 | The Future is Now | Innovation, inclusivity | 115 million | 2.4 million |
Note: Viewership data from Nielsen; social media shares from iSpot.tv and Brandwatch.
Practical Tips for Brands Inspired by Kia
- Start with the emotion: What feeling do you want viewers to walk away with?
- Use real people, not just actors: Authenticity builds trust.
- Show, don’t tell: Demonstrate benefits through story, not voiceover.
- Balance creativity with clarity: Make sure viewers know the brand and product.
- Engage after the ad airs: Use social media to answer questions and deepen the story.
Final Thoughts: Kia’s Super Bowl Legacy and What’s Next
Kia’s Kia electric car commercial Super Bowl journey is more than just a marketing campaign—it’s a cultural moment. By combining heartfelt storytelling with bold innovation, Kia has redefined what an EV brand can be. They’ve shown that electric cars aren’t just about saving the planet; they’re about enriching lives.
Looking ahead, expect Kia to continue pushing boundaries. With new models like the upcoming Kia EV5 and advancements in battery tech, the stories will only get richer. And with the Super Bowl as their stage, Kia has a unique opportunity to shape the future of mobility—one emotional ad at a time.
So next Super Bowl Sunday, don’t just watch the game. Watch the ads. And when Kia’s spot comes on, pay attention. Because behind the humor, the heart, and the stunning visuals, there’s a message: the future isn’t coming. It’s already here—and it’s electric.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was featured in the Kia electric car commercial during the Super Bowl?
The Kia electric car commercial Super Bowl spot showcased the brand’s latest EV model, highlighting its cutting-edge technology, sleek design, and eco-friendly performance. It also included a surprise celebrity cameo to emphasize its innovative features.
Why did Kia choose the Super Bowl to promote its electric car?
The Super Bowl offers unparalleled viewership, making it the perfect platform for Kia to reach millions of potential customers. The high-impact ad aligns with Kia’s goal to position its electric car as a mainstream, desirable choice.
Did the Kia Super Bowl ad win any awards or recognition?
While official award results may vary, the Kia electric car commercial Super Bowl ad received widespread praise on social media and ad ranking platforms for its creativity and emotional appeal. Many viewers called it one of the night’s standout commercials.
How does the Kia electric car compare to other EVs after the Super Bowl ad?
The Super Bowl ad emphasized the Kia EV’s competitive range, fast-charging capability, and affordable price point compared to rivals. It successfully positioned the vehicle as a top contender in the growing electric car market.
Was there a hidden message or theme in the Kia Super Bowl commercial?
Yes, the ad subtly promoted sustainability and a future-focused mindset, using symbolic visuals like nature and futuristic cityscapes. The theme resonated with Kia’s broader mission to drive innovation in eco-friendly transportation.
Where can I watch the full Kia electric car Super Bowl commercial?
The full Kia electric car commercial Super Bowl ad is available on Kia’s official YouTube channel and website. It’s also widely shared across social media platforms and ad recap articles online.