Kia Corporation is making bold strides in the electric vehicle (EV) market, and during the brand’s annual Kia EV Day in Korea, they unveiled three new small-to medium-sized electric models, reaffirming their commitment to leading and accelerating the ‘EV revolution.’
The presentation showcased Kia’s vision of ‘EVs for all’ and a strategy to significantly expand their EV model line-up, allowing more people to access and enjoy EVs. The three new models introduced include the EV5, a compact electric SUV targeting millennial families, and two concept models – the Kia Concept EV3, a compact SUV delivering the benefits of the EV9, and the Kia Concept EV4, a reimagined electric sedan with a striking design. This expansion aims to improve customer convenience and reliability while addressing common concerns, including charging infrastructure.
Kia’s President and CEO, Ho Sung Song, stated, “Kia is keenly focused on providing solutions to the concerns that continue to cause hesitation when it comes to making an EV purchase. We will meet customer expectations by offering a full line-up of EVs at various price points and improve charging infrastructure availability. As a sustainable mobility solutions provider, Kia’s transition to electric vehicles is a must, not an option.”
Kia is aiming to achieve an annual sales target of one million electric vehicles by 2026, with plans to increase it to 1.6 million units per year by 2030, driven by the products and initiatives revealed during this event.
Kia’s EV strategy involves developing an EV line-up ranging from $30,000 to $80,000, including existing models like the EV6 and EV9, as well as smaller EVs like the EV5, EV4, and EV3 with prices between $35,000 to $50,000. This approach will cater to various customer preferences and market demands, allowing Kia to diversify its offerings.
Kia is actively working on establishing a reliable system for EV production and battery supply, aiming to expand its global EV production facilities to a total of eight by 2025, with a focus on specific segments for different regions. This strategic approach will ensure a steady supply of batteries and facilitate global EV production.
Each of these new EV models will share common elements, such as Kia’s cutting-edge electric platform technology, innovative design philosophy known as ‘Opposites United,’ and a sustainable color, material, and finish (CMF) strategy that incorporates sustainability through materials like bio plastic, bio paint, and recycled PET. This commitment to sustainability is a cornerstone of Kia’s EV designs.
The Kia EV5, one of the new models, is built on the dedicated EV platform E-GMP. It offers an excellent driving experience, with various battery options and fast-charging capabilities. The EV5’s spacious cabin, advanced infotainment, and advanced features provide a comfortable and technologically advanced environment.
Kia’s approach to infotainment and connectivity is centered around the connected car Navigation Cockpit (ccNC) infotainment system, over-the-air software updates, and a Panoramic Wide Display. These features offer a convenient and immersive driving experience for users.
Safety and convenience are paramount for Kia, and the EV5 is equipped with advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), including Highway Driving Assist 2 (HDA2) and Remote Smart Parking Assist 2 (RSPA 2), which allows the SUV to park itself without driver intervention.
Additionally, Kia is working to enhance energy utilization in the EV5 with Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) and Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) functions, allowing the high-voltage battery to supply power to external devices and the grid.
Kia offers multiple seating configurations in the EV5, with eco-friendly materials, relaxation seats with a massage function, and an option for rear bench-type seats. The model’s cabin can be transformed for various uses, such as creating a bedroom in the rear of the vehicle.
The Kia Concept EV3 and Concept EV4 represent the brand’s innovative design and approach to electric compact vehicles. The Concept EV3 blends practicality with a joyful driving experience, while the Concept EV4 redefines the essence of the EV sedan, incorporating sporty elements and pushing boundaries in electric vehicle design.
Kia’s commitment to expanding charging infrastructure is evident through partnerships and initiatives, ensuring that customers have reliable access to charging stations. In North America, Kia plans to adopt the North American Charging Standard (NACS), providing customers with access to approximately 12,000 Tesla Superchargers.
Kia’s new EV experience aims to elevate the entire customer journey, from pre-purchase research to ownership experience. The Kia App, set for release in the first half of 2024, will offer comprehensive features like AI chatbot support, insurance premium discounts, and route optimization based on the vehicle’s battery status.
Kia also plans to improve offline customer experiences by establishing exclusive EV stores in multiple regions and using virtual and mixed reality technologies to provide immersive experiences.
Overall, Kia’s EV Day has showcased their dedication to advancing electric mobility, expanding their EV line-up, enhancing the customer experience, and building reliable charging infrastructure. This event marks a significant step in Kia’s journey to accelerate the global transition to electric vehicles.
