At the first and eventually annual Kia EV Day held in Korea, the automotive giant pulled back the curtain on its ambitious global strategy to spearhead the electric vehicle (EV) transition. The brand announced plans to sell one million electric vehicles annually by 2026, aiming to increase that figure to 1.6 million by 2030.
Integral to achieving this target are Kia’s efforts to diversify its product offerings, ranging from $30,000 to $80,000 and catering to both established and emerging markets. The all-new EV5 will be the first of this latest wave of EVs to be followed by many more.
New Models, New Visions: EV5 and Concept Models Take the Stage
During the event, Kia showcased three new small- to medium-sized electric models designed to make electric vehicles more accessible. The EV5, targeted at millennial families, was the star of the show, along with two conceptual models: the EV3, a compact SUV, and the EV4, a sedan. These new models join the existing line-up of EV6 and EV9, providing greater options for consumers looking to switch to electric cars.
Kia’s new electric models share a few commonalities: they’re built on the brand’s dedicated EV platform technology and feature the unique ‘Opposites United’ design philosophy. The company is also making strides in adopting sustainable practices, like incorporating bio-plastic, bio-paint, and recycled materials in vehicle construction.
The new EV5
Kia EV5 | Photo: Kia
The EV5 is built on Kia’s dedicated EV platform, E-GMP, ushering in a new era of electric mobility combined with unique SUV design. The vehicle will offer multiple powertrain options, including a standard model equipped with a 64kWh battery pack that is expected to have a driving range of 530km per charge. With production set to take place in both China and Korea, the Chinese market will have access to three variations: standard, long-range, and long-range AWD.
The EV5’s interior is innovatively designed to provide extensive space akin to a home lounge rather than a traditional car cabin. It also draws inspiration from the larger EV9 SUV, promising a distinctive and comfortable ride. Advanced infotainment and connectivity technologies, such as the connected car Navigation Cockpit, a Panoramic Wide Display, which combines a 12.3-inch cluster and 12.3-inch infotainment system, and over-the-air software updates, are part of the EV5’s offerings, making every journey efficient and digitally engaged.
Safety is a major focus, with the EV5 equipped with seven airbags and the brand’s latest Advanced Driver Assistance Systems. Remote Smart Parking Assist technology allows the vehicle to park itself, adding convenience and peace of mind for drivers navigating tight parking spaces.
Kia has shown its intent to significantly expand its model lineup to make electric mobility more accessible. The automaker aims to introduce smaller EVs like the EV5, priced between $35,000 and $50,000, to accelerate the widespread adoption of EVs.
Efforts are also being made to establish a reliable system for EV production and battery supply, with a goal of expanding its global EV production facilities to a total of eight by 2025. These facilities will focus on research, development, production, and supply, with Korea serving as the central hub.
According to rumours on the web, the EV5 will not be sold in the US but it may possibly be available in Canada. We’ll find out more soon enough.
Kia EV5 | Photo: Kia
Kia EV5 | Photo: Kia
Kia EV5 | Photo: Kia
Kia EV5 | Photo: Kia
