Slammed and stanced cars have been a staple of car enthusiast culture for decades, but with the rise of electric vehicles, a new era of lowered builds has emerged. The EV6, Kia’s first dedicated electric vehicle, has quickly become a popular platform for those looking to push the boundaries of car customization. Lowering an EV6 not only enhances its aesthetics but can also improve its handling and performance.
Understanding the EV6 model is essential to creating a successful slammed and stanced build. The EV6’s unique construction, with its battery pack located under the floor, presents new challenges and opportunities for customization. In this article, we will explore the fundamentals of slammed EV6 builds, including the step-by-step process of lowering an EV6, legal and safety considerations, and maintenance and upkeep. We will also dive into the culture surrounding stanced cars and the community and events that bring enthusiasts together.
Key Takeaways
- Lowering an EV6 can improve its aesthetics, handling, and performance.
- Understanding the EV6’s unique construction is crucial for successful customization.
- The slammed and stanced EV6 community is growing, with events and resources available for enthusiasts.
The Evolution of Car Lowering
Lowering a car for aesthetic purposes has been around since the early days of car customization. However, the methods and techniques used to achieve a lowered stance have evolved over time.
In the early days, car enthusiasts would simply cut the springs or use shorter springs to lower their vehicles. This method was not only crude but also dangerous, as it compromised the suspension’s ability to handle bumps and potholes.
As car customization became more popular, the need for safer and more effective lowering methods arose. This led to the development of coilovers, which allowed for adjustable ride height and improved handling.
In recent years, air suspension has become a popular option for car enthusiasts looking for a lowered stance. Air suspension allows for adjustable ride height and a smooth ride, making it a practical choice for daily drivers.
With the rise of electric vehicles, car enthusiasts are now exploring new ways to lower their EVs without compromising performance. The EV6, in particular, has become a popular platform for slammed and stanced builds, with owners experimenting with different lowering methods to achieve the perfect look and performance balance.
Overall, the evolution of car lowering has been driven by a desire for better performance and aesthetics. As technology continues to advance, we can expect to see even more innovative methods for achieving a lowered stance in the future.
Understanding the EV6 Model
The EV6 is a compact electric vehicle produced by the South Korean automaker, Kia Motors. It is based on the Electric-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) and shares its underpinnings with the Hyundai Ioniq 5. The EV6 is available in both rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations.
The EV6 boasts a futuristic design with sharp lines and a low-slung profile. The front of the vehicle features Kia’s signature “tiger nose” grille, which has been reimagined for the electric era. The grille is flanked by slim LED headlights that give the vehicle a sleek, modern look. The rear of the vehicle features a full-width LED light bar that connects the taillights, adding to the EV6’s futuristic aesthetic.
Inside, the EV6 features a minimalist and spacious cabin with a digital instrument cluster and a large infotainment screen. The vehicle also offers a range of advanced driver assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking.
Under the hood, the EV6 is powered by either a 58 kWh or 77.4 kWh battery pack, which provides a range of up to 316 miles on a single charge. The vehicle also features fast charging capabilities, allowing it to charge up to 80% in just 18 minutes.
Overall, the EV6 is a cutting-edge electric vehicle that combines futuristic design, advanced technology, and impressive performance. Its sleek and aerodynamic design makes it a perfect canvas for lowered and stanced builds, which can enhance its already daring appearance.
Fundamentals of Slammed EV6 Builds
Lowering a vehicle has been a popular trend in the automotive world for decades, and the EV6 is no exception. Slammed and stanced EV6 builds have become increasingly popular among car enthusiasts looking to give their vehicle a more aggressive and sporty look. In this section, we will discuss the fundamentals of slammed EV6 builds, including suspension modifications and wheel and tire considerations.
Suspension Modifications
Lowering a vehicle’s suspension involves modifying the vehicle’s springs, shocks, and other components to reduce the distance between the car’s body and the ground. The goal is to achieve a lower center of gravity, which can improve handling, reduce body roll, and give the car a more aggressive stance.
There are several ways to lower an EV6’s suspension, including coilovers, lowering springs, and air suspension. Coilovers are the most popular option and offer the most adjustability, allowing the driver to fine-tune the ride height and stiffness. Lowering springs are a more affordable option, but they offer less adjustability and can affect the car’s ride quality. Air suspension is the most expensive option, but it offers the most adjustability and can be raised or lowered with the push of a button.
Wheel and Tire Considerations
Lowering an EV6 also requires careful consideration of the wheels and tires. The goal is to achieve a flush fitment, where the wheels sit flush with the fenders and the tires have a stretched look. This requires the right combination of wheel size, offset, and tire size.
The most popular wheel sizes for slammed EV6 builds are 18 and 19 inches, with widths ranging from 8.5 to 10 inches. The offset is also important, as it determines how far the wheels sit in or out from the fenders. A lower offset will push the wheels out further, while a higher offset will tuck them in closer to the car’s body.
Tire size is also crucial, as a stretched tire can help achieve the desired look. However, it’s important to ensure that the tire size is safe and legal for street use. A reputable tire shop can help determine the right tire size for your EV6.
In conclusion, lowering an EV6 requires careful consideration of suspension modifications and wheel and tire choices. With the right combination of components, a slammed EV6 can achieve a more aggressive and sporty look while improving handling and performance.
Stance Culture and the EV6
The lowered stance look has been a popular trend in the automotive world for years, and it has now made its way into the EV6 community. Stance culture is all about achieving a low and aggressive look for a vehicle, often with the use of aftermarket suspension components. Lowering a car’s ride height can give it a more aggressive and sleek look, but it can also have an impact on performance.
Aesthetic Appeal
Lowering the EV6 can give it a more aggressive and sporty look, which is a major draw for many owners. The sleek and low stance can be accentuated with the use of wide wheels and tires, as well as custom body kits. The EV6’s futuristic styling lends itself well to the lowered stance look, and it’s no surprise that many owners are embracing this trend.
Performance Impacts
Lowering a car’s ride height can have both positive and negative impacts on performance. On the positive side, a lowered car can have a lower center of gravity, which can improve handling and reduce body roll. However, lowering a car too much can also have negative impacts on suspension geometry, which can lead to reduced handling and ride quality. It’s important to strike a balance between form and function when lowering an EV6.
In conclusion, the lowered stance look is a popular trend in the EV6 community, and it’s easy to see why. While it can have an impact on performance, many owners are willing to make this trade-off for the aggressive and sporty look it provides.
Step-by-Step Guide to Lowering an EV6
Lowering a vehicle is a popular way to give it a more aggressive stance and improve its handling. If you’re looking to lower your EV6, here is a step-by-step guide to help you get started.
Choosing the Right Components
Before you begin the installation process, you’ll need to choose the right components for your EV6. This includes lowering springs, coilovers, or air suspension. Each option has its pros and cons, so it’s important to do your research and choose the one that best fits your needs.
Lowering springs are the most affordable option and can be installed quickly. However, they offer limited adjustability and can result in a harsh ride. Coilovers offer more adjustability and a smoother ride, but they can be more expensive. Air suspension is the most expensive option, but it provides the most adjustability and a comfortable ride.
Installation Process
Once you’ve chosen the right components, it’s time to begin the installation process. The process will vary depending on the components you’ve chosen, but here are the general steps:
- Begin by jacking up the EV6 and removing the wheels.
- If you’re installing lowering springs, remove the factory springs and replace them with the new ones. If you’re installing coilovers or air suspension, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation.
- Adjust the ride height to your desired level. Make sure to measure the ride height on all four corners to ensure that it’s even.
- Reinstall the wheels and lower the EV6 back to the ground.
Safety Checks and Testing
After you’ve completed the installation process, it’s important to perform safety checks and testing. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Check the torque on all of the nuts and bolts to ensure that they’re properly tightened.
- Take the EV6 for a test drive to ensure that it’s handling properly and that there are no issues with the suspension.
- Check the ride height again to ensure that it hasn’t changed during the installation process.
By following these steps, you can safely lower your EV6 and achieve the aggressive stance and improved handling that you’re looking for.
Legal and Safety Considerations
Regulatory Compliance
Lowering the EV6 can have legal implications that owners should be aware of. In the United States, state laws vary on how low a car can be lowered. It is important to check with local authorities to ensure compliance with the law. Additionally, some areas may require modifications such as fender rolling or adding mud flaps to meet regulations.
In terms of federal regulations, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) mandates that all vehicles meet certain safety standards. Lowering a vehicle can potentially impact these standards, such as headlight aim or the effectiveness of airbags. It is important for owners to ensure that any modifications made to the vehicle do not compromise safety.
Impact on Warranty and Insurance
Lowering the EV6 can also impact the car’s warranty and insurance coverage. Any modifications made to the vehicle can potentially void the manufacturer’s warranty. It is important for owners to review their warranty information and speak with their dealership before making any modifications.
Insurance companies may also view modifications as a higher risk and may increase premiums accordingly. It is important for owners to inform their insurance company of any modifications made to the vehicle to ensure proper coverage.
Overall, owners should be aware of the legal and safety considerations when lowering their EV6. By ensuring compliance with regulations and taking necessary precautions, owners can safely enjoy their modified vehicle.
Community and Events
Online Forums and Groups
Lowered EV6 builds have gained a significant following in the online community. Enthusiasts from all over the world share their builds, discuss modifications, and offer advice on various online forums and groups. Some of the most popular forums and groups include:
- EV6 Owners Club: A forum dedicated to EV6 owners, where they can discuss everything related to their cars, including lowered builds. Members can share their experiences, ask for help, and connect with other enthusiasts.
- Lowered EV6 Builds Group: This Facebook group is a community of lowered EV6 enthusiasts who share their builds, discuss modifications, and offer advice to fellow members. With over 10,000 members, this group is a great place to connect with other lowered EV6 enthusiasts.
Meet-ups and Shows
Lowered EV6 enthusiasts often organize meet-ups and shows to showcase their builds and connect with other enthusiasts. Some of the most popular events include:
- Lowered EV6 Meet-up: This annual event brings together lowered EV6 enthusiasts from all over the country. Attendees can showcase their builds, meet other enthusiasts, and participate in various activities.
- Slammed and Stanced Show: This show is dedicated to lowered builds of all kinds, including lowered EV6s. Attendees can see some of the most daring and unique builds, meet the builders, and connect with other enthusiasts.
Overall, the lowered EV6 community is a vibrant and passionate group of enthusiasts who are dedicated to pushing the limits of their cars. Whether online or in person, there are plenty of opportunities to connect with other enthusiasts and showcase your build.
Maintenance and Upkeep of Lowered EV6
Lowering a vehicle can significantly change its appearance and handling, but it also requires additional maintenance and upkeep to ensure that the car remains safe and reliable. Here are some tips on how to maintain and care for a lowered EV6:
Tire Pressure
Maintaining proper tire pressure is crucial when driving a lowered car. Lowered cars have a lower ground clearance, which means that the tires are more susceptible to damage from potholes, speed bumps, and other road hazards. Keeping the tires properly inflated can help prevent damage and extend their lifespan.
Alignment
Lowering a vehicle can affect its alignment, which can lead to uneven tire wear and poor handling. It’s important to get the alignment checked and adjusted regularly to ensure that the car handles properly and the tires wear evenly.
Suspension Components
Lowering a car puts additional stress on its suspension components, such as the shocks, struts, and springs. It’s important to inspect these components regularly to ensure that they are in good condition and functioning properly. If any components are worn or damaged, they should be replaced immediately to prevent further damage and ensure the car’s safety.
Ground Clearance
When driving a lowered car, it’s important to be aware of the ground clearance and avoid driving over speed bumps, steep driveways, and other obstacles that could damage the car’s undercarriage. It’s also important to avoid driving on rough roads or off-road terrain that could cause damage to the car’s suspension and other components.
By following these tips, owners of lowered EV6s can ensure that their cars remain safe, reliable, and enjoyable to drive. Regular maintenance and upkeep can help prevent costly repairs and extend the life of the vehicle.
Future Trends in EV Lowering
As the popularity of electric vehicles (EVs) continues to rise, so does the interest in modifying them. Lowering an EV not only improves its aesthetics but also enhances its handling and performance. Here are some future trends in EV lowering:
1. Air Suspension
While coilovers have been the go-to option for lowering cars, air suspension is gaining popularity in the EV community. Air suspension offers the ability to adjust ride height on the fly, providing a comfortable ride for daily driving and a lowered stance for shows or track days. It also allows for a smoother ride over rough roads and speed bumps, which is especially important for EVs due to their heavy battery packs.
2. Hybrid Lowering Systems
Another trend in EV lowering is the use of hybrid lowering systems that combine traditional coilovers with air suspension. This allows for the benefits of both systems, with the ability to adjust ride height and damping on the fly, as well as the precision and stiffness of coilovers for improved handling.
3. Lightweight Wheels
Lowering an EV can have a significant impact on its handling and performance, but it can also increase unsprung weight, which negatively affects handling and acceleration. To mitigate this, lightweight wheels made from materials such as forged aluminum or carbon fiber are becoming more popular. These wheels not only reduce unsprung weight but also improve the overall look of the vehicle.
4. Improved Battery Technology
As battery technology continues to improve, the weight of EVs will decrease, making them more suitable for lowering. This will also improve their handling and performance, as less weight means better acceleration, braking, and cornering. Additionally, lighter batteries will allow for more flexibility in suspension tuning, as less weight means less stress on the suspension components.
Overall, the future of EV lowering looks promising, with new technologies and innovations on the horizon. As EVs become more prevalent, there will be more options for lowering and modifying them, leading to a more diverse and exciting car culture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What modifications are commonly made when lowering an EV6?
Lowering an EV6 often involves installing new suspension components such as springs, shocks, and sway bars. Some builders may also opt for air suspension systems or coilovers to fine-tune the ride height and stiffness. In addition, modifications to the wheels and tires are often made to achieve the desired stance.
How does altering the suspension affect the EV6’s warranty?
Modifying the suspension of an EV6 can potentially void the manufacturer’s warranty. It is important to check with the dealership or manufacturer before making any modifications to ensure that the warranty remains intact.
Can lowering an EV6 impact its electric range?
Lowering an EV6 can potentially impact its electric range, as the vehicle’s aerodynamics may be altered. However, the impact on range is typically minimal and varies depending on the specific modifications made.
What are the performance implications of a stanced EV6?
A stanced EV6 may have improved handling and cornering abilities due to the lower center of gravity. However, extreme stances may negatively impact performance and ride quality.
Are there any legal considerations when modifying the EV6’s ride height?
It is important to be aware of local laws and regulations regarding vehicle ride height. Some states and municipalities have restrictions on how low a vehicle can be lowered, and failure to comply with these laws can result in fines or legal consequences.
What are the best practices for maintaining a lowered EV6?
Regular maintenance is crucial for a lowered EV6, as the modifications can put additional stress on the suspension components. It is recommended to have the vehicle aligned and inspected regularly, and to replace worn or damaged parts promptly. Additionally, avoiding rough roads and harsh driving conditions can help prolong the life of the suspension components.