Kia has expanded its global electric vehicle lineup with the debut of the EV2, a compact SUV positioned as the brand’s most accessible electric model to date. Built on a scaled-down version of the Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), the EV2 is designed primarily for the European market, with production confirmed for Kia’s facility in Slovakia. The vehicle is expected to enter the market with an estimated price point of approximately £26,000.
Powertrain, Battery, and Charging
Unlike the high-voltage 800V systems found in the EV6 and EV9, the EV2 utilizes a 400V architecture to balance performance and cost-efficiency. The SUV will be available in two primary configurations:
- Standard Range: Equipped with a 42.2 kWh battery and a 147 PS (108 kW) front-mounted motor, offering a range of 317 km (197 miles).
- Long Range: Features a 61.0 kWh battery pack, extending the range to 448 km (278 miles).
Charging the EV2 from 10% to 80% via a DC fast charger takes approximately 30 minutes. The vehicle also supports 11 kW and 22 kW AC charging, alongside Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) and Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) capabilities, allowing the car to power external devices.
Dimensions and Exterior Design
The EV2 features a boxy, utilitarian aesthetic consistent with Kia’s larger electric SUVs. It measures 4,060 mm in length and 1,800 mm in width, with a wheelbase of 2,565 mm. Key design elements include vertically stacked LED headlamps, squared-off wheel arches, and flush door handles. The exterior is further defined by rugged bumper cladding and a flat boot lid, aimed at providing a confident road presence without excessive ornamentation.
Interior and Technology
The cabin is designed for versatility, offering both four-seat and five-seat configurations. In the four-seat variant, folding the rear seats expands the cargo capacity to 403 litres, supplemented by a 15-litre front trunk (frunk) for smaller items. The dashboard features a triple-screen layout, which includes a digital instrument cluster, a central infotainment touchscreen, and a dedicated display for climate controls. This system is a streamlined version of the Connected Car Navigation Cockpit (CCNC) found in premium Kia models. Standard technological features include:
- Over-the-air (OTA) software updates
- Digital key and smartphone integration
- Surround-view cameras and remote parking assistance
- A comprehensive suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)
Market Outlook
In Europe, the Kia EV2 will compete directly with the Renault 4 E-Tech and the upcoming Volkswagen ID.2-based crossover. While Kia has not officially confirmed the EV2 for the Indian market, its dimensions and specifications suggest it could serve as a competitor to existing electric models like the Tata Nexon EV and Citroen eC3 if the company decides to localize the platform.
