Next month, KIA will present the production version of the EV5 during the Auto Show in Chengdu (China). This electric SUV, which will be based on the E-GMP platform already used in the EV6 and EV9, will have dimensions similar to those of the Sportage, one of the most important models of the Korean firm internationally.
Previous information indicates that it will equip an 82 kWh capacity battery, enough to achieve a range of 600 km under the Chinese CLTC cycle. Unlike the EV6 and EV9, which have an 800-volt system, the EV5 will settle for a 400-volt one. Therefore, it won’t be able to match the lightning-fast loading times of its bigger brothers.
This model will be key for KIA in China, where it will use LFP (lithium-fluorophosphate) batteries to achieve competitive costs compared to its local rivals. Units destined for Europe and North America will continue to rely on NCM (nickel, cobalt, manganese) chemistry, which offers higher energy density.
“KIA will enrich the lifestyle of its customers and allow them to embark on personal adventures by setting new standards for dynamic and efficient electric driving,” said Ho Sung Song, Chairman and CEO of KIA Corporation, a few months ago on the occasion of the presentation. of the Concept EV5, a prototype very close to the production version.
The EV5 will be one of the last KIA models to use the E-GMP platform
Aesthetically, the EV5 will move away from the stylized forms of the EV6, betting on a more angular and rectilinear design directly inspired by the EV9. Although its classic off-road silhouette will probably provide outstanding habitability, it will have worse aerodynamics as a counterpart, which will directly affect its consumption and range.
“The KIA Concept EV5 is inspired by the contrast and complementarity of natural landscapes and man-made architecture. It is designed to inspire our customers on every journey while providing sustainable and environmentally responsible solutions,” said Karim Habib, Executive Vice President and Head of KIA’s Global Design Center, in March. “Created for those seeking creative new ideas, the SUV combines an emotional form language with innovative, user-focused interior architecture.”
Everything indicates that the EV5 will be one of the last electric cars from KIA to use the E-GMP platform since the Hyundai group will replace it in 2025 with the new IMA, defined by software and cheaper to manufacture.
