Seoul: Kia Corp. has unveiled its latest electric vehicle, the EV5, in South Korea, marking the company's fifth dedicated electric model. The launch sets the stage for future exports to European and Canadian markets.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the EV5 is a compact electric SUV constructed on the Hyundai Motor Group's E-GMP platform. The South Korean version of the EV5 is tailored with specific design and safety features to meet local consumer preferences and regulatory standards, distinguishing it from the model previously introduced in China.
The production of the EV5 will take place at Kia's Gwangju facility, catering to both domestic and international markets. The vehicle's exterior reflects Kia's "Opposites United" design philosophy, combining a boxy shape with curved elements. Inside, the EV5 offers ample passenger space and 965 liters of luggage capacity.
The vehicle is powered by an 81.4 kWh nickel-cobalt-manganese battery, paired with a 160-kilowatt front-wheel-drive motor. Notably, the batteries are sourced from China's CATL, rather than South Korean manufacturers. Kia cited the need for a stable supply chain as the reason behind this decision, emphasizing considerations of cost, performance, quality, and safety. The company assured that the batteries meet Kia's safety and quality standards.
The EV5 introduces an acceleration-limiting assist feature, a first for any Hyundai Motor Group model. Additionally, it offers convenience options such as a pet mode, which lets owners maintain an optimal indoor temperature for pets via a smartphone app when they are left in the vehicle.