Kia delivers its most affordable EV yet with the new EV2 crossover

After teasing us for almost a year, Kia has finally revealed the EV2, a small electric SUV that promises to bring battery-powered driving to more people. With a starting price expected around $35,000, this new model is the brand's cheapest electric option yet. It hits the market next month and faces stiff competition from rivals like the Renault 4, Ford Puma Gen-E, and the upcoming Volkswagen ID. Cross.

The EV2 runs on a 400V version of the Hyundai Motor Group's E-GMP platform. This is the same foundation used for the larger EV3 and EV4 models. Buyers can choose between two battery sizes, though both pair with a single electric motor that drives the front wheels. The Standard Range model uses a 42.2 kWh battery, which delivers an estimated range of 197 miles. For those who need to drive a little bit further, the Long Range version packs a 61 kWh battery that boosts the range to 278 miles.

One of the EV2's clever features is its charging capability. In a rare move for this segment, Kia equipped both versions with 11 kW and 22 kW AC on-board chargers. This is a smart choice for European drivers, as many home chargers there support the faster 22 kW speed. Using this higher speed, the small battery fills up in just 2 hours and 35 minutes, while the larger pack takes about 3 hours. For quick stops, the car can use DC fast charging, but Kia did not reveal the actual output that the new EV2 supports. It takes roughly 29 to 30 minutes to charge from 10% to 80%.

The EV2 also brings useful power features to the table. It includes vehicle-to-load (V2L) technology, which lets owners power appliances directly from the car. It also supports vehicle-to-grid (V2G) functionality, allowing the car to send energy back into the power grid.

Size-wise, the EV2 is compact but practical. It measures 159.8 inches long and 70.9 inches wide. While its wheelbase of 101 inches matches the Hyundai Inster, Kia emphasizes that the two cars are different. The Inster uses a modified gas-engine platform, while the EV2 is built as an electric car from the ground up.

Inside the cabin, buyers can choose a standard five-seat layout or a more flexible four-seat setup. The four-seat version features rear seats that slide and recline independently. The dashboard comes with a large panoramic display setup, including a 12.3-inch touchscreen, a 5.3-inch climate control screen, and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. These run on the "Lite" version of the group's infotainment system. It offers over-the-air software updates, though surprisingly, map updates for navigation will not be wireless.

Kia designed the exterior with its "Opposites United" style, giving the small SUV a boxy shape and vertical daytime running lights. Wheel sizes range from 16 inches on cheaper models up to 19 inches. Safety tech is also plentiful, with standard features like Highway Driving Assist 2, Smart Cruise Control, and Lane Keeping Assist. The car even supports a digital key that works with smartphones via NFC and Bluetooth.

Production starts soon at Kia's factory in Zilina, Slovakia. The Standard Range model hits the assembly line in February, with the Long Range and sporty GT-line versions following in June.

Source