KIA LINES UP NEW EVs AS CEO COMMITS TO CITY CAR

Boss says non-EV powertrains are also needed to meet global demand

- MARK TISSHAW

he next wave of Kia EVs is being prepared for launch by the end of the decade, among them an entry-level model as well as a next-generation architecture that will underpin replacements for the likes of the EV6 and EV9.

Kia's rollout of electric cars continues apace, with the current EV3, EV6 and EV9 being joined this year by the EV4 and EV5, followed by the EV2 in 2026. Now the firm's efforts are focused on what comes next.

An entry-level EV that sits below the EV2 and is priced below €25,000 (about £21,000) is the major new addition, but replacements for the EV6 and EV9 will mark step-changes for the brand as it moves to software-defined vehicles (SDVs).

New range-extender EV technology is also in the works, alongside continued development of hybrids and even internal-combustion-engined models as Kia plans to continue offering a whole range of vehicles that is now expanding beyond cars and into vans and pick-ups for the first time.

SMALLER KIAS

Kia president and CEO Ho Sung Song confirmed his commitment to entry-level models and keeping his cars affordable and accessible, and to that end suggested a baby Kia is deep into its development.

Song said Kia was in no rush to replace the current Picanto city car, which is still selling well in Europe, and the strength of Kia's electric car range means the firm isn't under any imminent pressure from the CO2 regulations that have doomed other city cars on the market in recent years.

The Picanto, heavily updated in 2023, would therefore remain on sale up until the point that Kia was able to create an entry-level electric city car for less than €25,000. The brand feels it is important to keep such an affordable entry-level model in its range.

Song said the mooted entry-level EV was “homework” for Kia at the moment, and a sub-€25,000 model was “one area we are studying and developing”.