Kia fills out range at EV day
Kia has detailed three EV models at its recent global EV day in Spain.
The trio consists of a small SUV concept in the form of the EV2, a production-ready EV4 in sedan and hatchback form, and the already teased PV5 multi-purpose vehicle.
With EV3 headed to market, and the EV5, EV6 and EV9 already in market, Kia is quickly building the broadest range of EV models available.
Concept EV2
The Concept EV2 is a B-segment SUV designed with urban environments in mind. Its upright proportions are combined with Kia’s ‘Star Map lighting’ elements, giving the front end a distinctive appearance. Although the vehicle’s footprint is relatively small, the interior makes use of a fold-up second row and rear-hinged back doors to facilitate loading and entry.
In New Zealand it would likely go head-to-head with the Jeep Avenger and potentially the slightly-larger Opel Mokka on sale. That said, it is not a definite starter here as yet.
According to Kia President and CEO Ho Sung Song, the Concept EV2 is intended to “offer innovative technology and practicality beyond its size” and preview a future production model. Kia has indicated the EV2 or something similar could launch in some regions, including Europe, in 2026.
EV4
Kia also showed the production EV4, which moves away from the SUV format often seen in current electric line-ups. It will be available in two body styles: a four-door sedan and a five-door hatch. Both share a 400V architecture – as opposed to the 800-volt architecture of the EV6 and EV9 – and offer 58.3kWh or 81.4kWh battery packs.
Long-range sedan variants have a stated maximum driving distance of up to 630km (WLTP), while equivalent hatchbacks are estimated at 590km. Kia’s figures suggest a 10–80 percent fast-charge time of roughly half an hour.
The cabin features a wide, 30-inch combined display set-up, advanced driver-assistance systems, and a smartphone-based key system. Production of the sedan is expected to begin in Korea around March 2025, with the hatch to follow in Slovakia later that year.
Ho Sung Song noted Kia’s commitment to making electrification accessible. “With models like the Kia EV4 and the vision shown in the Kia Concept EV2, we strive to democratise EV ownership, making the benefits of sustainable mobility solutions open to everyone.”
The sedan is expected to be built in Korea, while the hatch will be made at Kia’s plant in Slovakia.
Expect to see the EV4 in New Zealand sooner rather than later, with an example set to appear at the local Kia EV day in late March.
The EV4 in hatchback form will go up against the MG4, while the sedan is likely to have the segment to itself, potentially offering a smaller option to those looking at the Tesla Model 3.
PV5
Kia’s new PV5 departs from traditional van or MPV designs by using a modular ‘skateboard’ chassis that supports multiple body styles. The company refers to this approach as ‘Platform Beyond Vehicle’ (PBV).
Current variants of the PV5 include Passenger, Cargo, Chassis Cab, Crew, and Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle (WAV) configurations.
All share a front-mounted, 120kW motor paired with one of three battery sizes, ranging from 43.3kWh to 71.2kWh. Kia estimates up to 400km of driving range for certain Passenger models. The PV5 is designed to suit different commercial or private uses, with reconfigurable seating, a low cargo floor in Cargo versions, and a 30-minute DC fast-charge capability.
Sung Song underlined the broader strategy: “In an era that places ever greater demand for customised products and experiences, buyers still expect manufacturers to meet their needs. As a first mover in the PBV sector, Kia, through the PV5, combines a customer-first approach with advanced EV technology to transform personal mobility.”
