That has extensive experience in the electric crossover market with Soul EV and electric versions of Niro, but now there is a new model called EV4. We first caught sight of the EV4 last year, when Kia announced plans to launch 14 new EVs by 2027.
Two ‘EV’ SUVs will follow the latest EV6. According to European product boss Sjoerd Knipping, the Korean brand’s second “EVx” vehicle will be a Large SUV targeting the United States. But more importantly for us, it will be followed by a model developed for the European market – Knipping talks about “balancing” between the US and other territories.
Kia keeps the branding for the badges from EV1 to EV9. The large SUV could be a production version of the EV9 concept, which will offer the same 7-seater capacity as Ioniq 7 SUV of Hyundaiconfirmed to launch in 2024. Next up is a crossover likely called the EV4, which is about the size of a rival Volvo C40, Mercedes EQA and the new one BMW iX1.
Our exclusive image previews what the EV4 might look like, based on a shadow teaser image from the announcement. Design cues inspired by the EV6 will likely include full-width LED headlights and taillights, as well as muscular surfaces and a new Kia logo. The dark molding on the C-pillar will also cross over from the EV6 as will the black wheel extensions.
The EV4 will be based on the Hyundai-Kia Group’s E-GMP platform for electric cars. The slightly reduced wheelbase compared to the EV6 (2,900mm) means its dimensions will be close to that of the new fifth-generation Kia Europe. Sport SUV car. Clever packaging thanks to a flexible platform maximizes cabin space, with less loss than in an internal combustion engine vehicle. And even with a shorter wheelbase, the EV4 will likely use the EV6’s battery technology.
That means 58kWh and 77.4kWh can be offered for a maximum range of just over 300 miles in the EV4 midsize SUV. Also expect a dual-motor powertrain, for all-wheel drive and capable of up to 321bhp, although a 226bhp single-engine version is also expected to be available, bringing down the entry price.
With an E-GMP setup offering 800 volt electronic architecture and a maximum fast charge rate of 350kW, the larger battery will charge from 10 to 80% in just 18 minutes or go 62 miles of range in just five years. minute .
While the E-GMP platform will underpin many future Kia EVs, Knipping also points out that it “won’t serve all segments, especially some smaller ones”. He added, “Not all cars need 800V technology, so can we use our 400V technology in many places? We needed to see if the market segments we served could be equal to the originating platforms [such as the current e-Niro]Or will there be a new platform? “
Kia plans to have a lineup of 11 electric vehicles by 2025; six standalone EVs, with five “derivative” EV models. “We have to figure out what the priorities are; areas that need to promote EV and where you can rely on ICE platforms. “
As part of this fully electrified charge from Kia, we’ll likely see the brand’s EV7 or EV8 full-size SUV next year. Meanwhile, the EV4 could make its debut in 2022 or early next year, with sales starting later in 2023.
What do you think of the EV4? Can Kia continue its hot electric car product series? Have your say in the comments…
