Kia is getting serious about an entire range of affordable EVs in the next phase after great success with its initial offerings like the EV6 and EV9
The new Kia EV2 compact EV has been spied testing for the very first time. Kia has been having a great time on the sales charts with its EV6 and EV9 along with the former’s derivatives like the EV6 GT. In essence, these vehicles represent the best that Kia has to offer. While that is great for building image, if you wish to reach the masses you need to make affordable products. That is exactly what the Hyundai Motor Group is focusing on. Hence, it is evident that the next breed of EVs from Hyundai and Kia will cater to that market segment globally.
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New Kia EV2 Compact EV Spotted
As is the case with all spy shots, the exterior of the compact electric SUV is wrapped under heavy camouflage. Still, its characteristics and dimensions give away its true identity. Kia has already announced that it wants to launch 8 EV models in the U.S. by 2029. Most of these will cater to the masses. Through the camouflage, we are able to get a sneak peek into the styling elements.
These include things like vertically-oriented LED DRLs like on the recent Kia electric cars, a boxy silhouette, prominent roof rails, stylish alloy wheels and an upright and tall-boy stance. The pronounced wheel arches and dual-tone aero alloy wheels lend it an imposing and modern road presence. Finally, the sleek LED taillamp section is partially visible through the covering as well, with the “Star Map” lighting. Hence, we can conclude that the design philosophy will be similar to the latest Kia products like the EV3.
Talking about the powertrain, it is still unclear what exactly it will carry. However, we know that it will most likely utilize the immensely lucrative E-GMP architecture from Hyundai which underpins many Hyundai, Kia and Genesis EVs. It will even have a decent-sized battery pack to deliver 300 miles (483 km) of range on a single charge. The recharging from 10% to 80% will come up in just 30 minutes.
On the inside, it could boast the new ccNC (Connected Car Navigation Cockpit) operating system. As a part of this, it will have two 12.3-inch displays – one for infotainment and one for the driver’s instrument gauge. Also, we can be assured that the cabin will bear the latest tech and convenience amenities to pamper the customers. The Kia EV2 compact EV will be made in Slovakia, Europe.
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Learn Electric Cars Says
I believe the coming time belongs to mass market affordable EVs. The initial surge in EV growth and demand has almost plateaued. In fact, witnessing less-than-anticipated growth, many legacy carmakers have dialled back their plans of going fully electric in the coming years. Furthermore, some of them are reconsidering focusing on hybrids in the meantime. The Hyundai Motor Group is well-diversified in its portfolio, but they are still going all-in for compact urban EVs. It remains to be seen how things pan out in times to come.