Kia Reveals Electric Compact SUV EV5 and two Concept Models in Korea

Kia Corporation has unveiled three new small- to medium-sized electric models at the brand’s annual Kia EV Day in Korea. The presentation featured the debut of the EV5, a compact electric SUV for millennial families, as well as the introduction of two concept models.

The standard EV5 model, equipped with a 64kWh battery pack and a 160kW motor, is expected to have a driving range of 530km per charge according to the Combined Charging and Load Cycle (CLTC) standards.

The long-range model, featuring an 88kWh battery and the same 160kW motor, aims to achieve a range of 720km per charge. 

The Kia Concept EV3 is a compact SUV, while the Kia Concept EV4 is an electric sedan.

The brand aims to introduce smaller EVs like the EV5, EV4, and EV3, with prices ranging from $35,000 to $50,000, to accelerate the widespread adoption of EVs.

Kia also showcased the company's EV strategy, aimed at improving customer convenience, reliability, and addressing concerns, including charging infrastructure.

It plans to streamline different functions into a smartphone application, introducing new services at their physical locations, and providing customers with in-vehicle artificial intelligence (AI) services.

Ho Sung Song, President and CEO, says: 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.”

He adds: “As a sustainable mobility solutions provider, Kia’s transition to electric vehicles is a must, not an option. By developing advanced EV technology, bold design, and intuitive services, and applying them to our entire EV line-up, our ultimate aim is to provide Kia’s unique value to as many people as possible. The acceleration towards electrification begins now.”

Charles Ryu, Head of Brand and Customer Experience Division, comemnts: “Kia aims to provide sustainable mobility solutions and fulfill the needs of our customers by eliminating perceived difficulties. We want to make the entire customer journey, from digital to offline to in-vehicle interactions, as effortless and enjoyable as possible. This includes the stages of pre-purchase, purchase and post-purchase.” 

Kia’s goal is to achieve an annual sales target of one million electric vehicles by 2026 and increase it to 1.6 million units per year by 2030