EV2 Concept previews the most affordable EV from Kia

Kia pulled the covers off its latest EV - the EV4. But it wasn't the only vehicle that debuted today. Kia is gearing up to make electric cars more accessible to everyday drivers with its upcoming EV2. This small SUV, previewed as a concept vehicle today, is set to hit the market next year to compete with the likes of Renault 5. With a targeted starting price of around €30,000, Kia hopes to attract buyers looking for a budget-friendly electric option.

While specific technical details remain under wraps, the EV2 is expected to use the 400V version of the Hyundai Motor Group's E-GMP platform. This foundation also supports the larger Kia EV3 and EV4 models. It's anticipated that the EV2 will offer similar powertrain options to those of its siblings, potentially featuring a 201 horsepower motor paired with either a 58.3 kWh or 81.4 kWh battery pack. The EV3, for context, achieves a range of 270 miles with the smaller battery and 375 miles with the larger one.

Kia might choose to fit the EV2 with only the smaller battery to keep it affordable. There's also the possibility of using the 43.3 kWh lithium-iron-phosphate battery found in the PV5 van to achieve the target price. Regardless, Kia is targeting a range of approximately 270 miles, which would place the EV2 ahead of many of its direct competitors. For example, the Renault 4 offers a 250-mile range with its 52 kWh battery.

The EV2's design uses Kia's "Opposites United" philosophy, featuring smooth exterior surfaces and a distinctive front lighting arrangement. The front lights include a unique running light design positioned beside the main headlights. The rear lights are set low and have a rounded shape, differing from Kia's existing EV models. Inside, the EV2 will likely feature a combined instrument and infotainment display, similar to the EV3, stretching across a significant portion of the dashboard. Some of the concept's more elaborate features, such as flip-up front seat bases and rear-hinged doors, are unlikely to make it to the production vehicle.

The launch of the EV2 means Kia is finally shifting from focusing on premium EVs for early adopters, like the EV6 and EV9, to targeting the "early majority" of consumers. Kia's president, Ho Sung Song, talked about the brand's commitment to integrating electrification into everyday life, making EVs more accessible to a broader audience. This focus on affordability and practicality seems to be central to Kia's strategy for the EV2.

If Kia sticks to the competitive pricing and range promises, the Kia EV2 will have a decent chance to secure a slice of the growing market of affordable electric cars. The vehicle's blend of modern design, practical features, and accessible technology shouldn't have a problem attracting a wider range of drivers.

Source