Kia unveiled three new small and medium-sized electric vehicle (EV) models at Kia EV Day 2023 in Korea. The Korean automaker plans to offer two electric compact SUVs and an electric sedan to speed up the ‘EV revolution’ and offer more people greater options.
Kia EV Day 2023 was the debut of the EV5 (SUV), and two EV Concept models: the Kia Concept EV3 (SUV) and EV4 (Sedan).
The Kia EV5: An electric compact SUV designed to meet the needs of millennial families
The EV5 will have three variations: standard, long-range, and long-range AWD. It will appear in Chinese and Korean markets first, and there’s no confirmation of what’s coming to Europe. So, the detailed parameters published are based on tests in China rather than the WLTP ones we’re used to. The EV5 will provide fast charging from 30% to 80% capacity in 27 minutes.
The standard version will have a 64kWh battery and a 160kW motor to get 530km per charge. The long-range version comes with a larger battery (88 kWh) to achieve a range of 720km. The long-range AWD model also owns an 88kWh battery but has a rear-wheel 70kW motor to get a range of up to 650km. In the Korean market, EV5 versions will have similar engines but smaller batteries. The standard version has a smaller battery (58 kWh) than the long-range and long-range AWD versions (81 kWh).
According to Kia, the EV5 will have an advanced heat pump system to manage battery temperature and ensure stable performance. In addition, EV5 allows drivers to both slow down and accelerate with a single pedal based on the i-Pedal system. Thus, it can reduce fatigue and enhance the driving experience.
Safety and Convenience Features
Inside, the EV5 has a spacious cabin equipped with soft furnishings. A three-screen infotainment system can provide the driver with comfort and convenience on every journey.
Drivers can also enjoy many safety features on the EV5, including state-of-the-art seatbelt technology, the brand’s latest Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), Highway Driving Assist 2 (HDA2), and Remote Smart Parking Assist 2 (RSPA2). These are safety features that many people expect in their cars.
Kia said the EV5 will also have a GT version with many interesting features and experiences, but there are few details about it.
“The Kia EV5 is not just the next addition to our rapidly expanding EV line-up but also the embodiment of how we will accelerate the EV revolution. For us, it is the perfect representation of both our future EV strategy and our commitment to accelerating the worldwide transition to EVs.” Spencer Cho, Head of Global Business Planning Sub-Division
First look at Concept EV3 and EV4 on Kia EV Day 2023
The Kia Concept EV3
The Concept EV3 can be considered a compact version of the EV9 but more accessible. It offers users the technology, practicality, and design of Kia’s flagship SUV.
“Joy and reason may seem to oppose, one emotion and the other logic, but when combined, they create a powerful and impactful design,” – Karim Habib, Executive Vice President, and Head of Kia Global Design Center.
In Concept EV3, the ‘Joy for Reason’ influence can be seen through the contrasting features of a robust body combined with a dynamic silhouette.
The Kia Concept EV4
In contrast, the Concept EV4 is an electric sedan shaped by the ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy. The Concept EV4 comes with a new ‘Mind Modes’ feature that adjusts ambient lighting and animated ventilation patterns. In ‘Perform’ mode, EV4 presents the driver with all the information required to perform at their best and maximize their day. In contrast, the ‘Serenity’ mode offers a range of digital graphics to create a more relaxed ambience.
Kia intends to revolutionize the in-vehicle experience by partnering with Generative AI providers. So, customers can access a variety of services by engaging in conversations with the generative AI assistant. Kia will integrate Generative AI technology into the EV3 2024 model and then the EV4 and EV5.
On Kia EV Day 2023, Kia announced its plan to develop a wide-ranging EV priced from 30,000 USD to 80,000 USD. The brand aims to introduce smaller EVs, such as the EV5, EV4, and EV3, from $35,000 to $50,000 to speed up the widespread adoption of EVs. This is good news for customers with a low budget but wanting to experience premium features on modern electric vehicles.
