Kia EV4 teaser

Kia EV4 compact electric SUV could slot below the EV6

by

Kia plans to launch two more EVx SUVs following the Kia EV6, and as per a new report from Auto Express, a compact model called the Kia EV4 is in the pipeline. An EVx SUV refers to the dedicated electric vehicle, and not a conversion BEV such as the e-Niro or e-Soul.

Kia will introduce the next-gen Kia Niro EV in 2022, but a year later, it is likely to launch the second EVx SUV – the Kia EV7/Kia EV8. The latter will be larger than the Kia EV6 and offer three-row seating like the Sorento and Telluride.

Hyundai Kia Genesis E-GMP platform
The Kia EV4 will ride on the E-GMP platform and that strengthens speculations for features like V2L, virtual mirrors and a segment-breaking GT performance variant. Image Source: Kia

The Kia EV4 will arrive after the EV7/EV8 and could offer the same space levels of a Sportage. Thanks to the E-GMP, the former won’t need the dimensions of a combustion model to offer the same interior space. For reference, the new Sportage is 4,660 mm (183.5 in.) long, 1,865 mm (73.4 in.) wide, and 1,660 mm (65.4 in.) tall, and its wheelbase measures 2,755 mm (108.9 in.). The EV6, at 4,680 mm (184.3 in.) length, matches the wheelbase of the flagship Telluride at 114.2 inches.

Mercedes EQA
The Kia EV4 would be a budget alternative to models like the Mercedes EQA and Volvo C40. It could go on sale sometime in 2023, following its debut next year. Image: Mercedes

The E-GMP platform enables a high system voltage of 800 volts, double the usual 400 volts. So, customers can rapidly charge their E-GMP platform-based EVs at up to 350 kW. In the EV6, which is available with 58.0 and 77.4 kWh battery pack options, charging from 10 to 80% SoC takes less than 18 minutes. Just five minutes of charging can provide a range of nearly 70 miles. The EV4 could get the battery of the EV6, and offer a range of around 300 miles (EPA est.).

Kia EV4 FAQs

What is the Kia EV4?

It is expected as a compact SUV, and to play the role of a budget alternative to the Mercedes EQA and Volvo C40.

What is release date of the Kia EV4

Kia has only said that it is working on 2 dedicated EVs following the EV6. However expect the EV4’s market launch by 2023.

What is the expected price of the Kia EV4?

Kia could place the EV4 at GBP sub-35,000 levels. It is unclear if the EV4 would be sold in the United States.

Featured Image Source: Kia

Related Posts