Kia Corp has unveiled three new small-to-medium-sized electric vehicles (EVs) as part of its strategy to appeal to a broader customer base and accelerate electrification efforts. The South Korean automaker plans to launch two electric compact SUVs, EV5 and EV3, and an electric sedan, EV4, in a bid to reach its target of selling one million EVs by 2026.
Kia aims to offer a wide range of EV models priced from $30,000 to $80,000, with smaller EVs like EV5, EV4, and EV3 priced between $35,000 and $50,000. The EV5, the third dedicated EV in Kia's lineup, is set to launch in South Korea in 2025, with production taking place in both China and South Korea.
The EV5 models sold in China will use lithium-phosphate-iron (LFP) batteries, while those in South Korea will feature more expensive nickel-cobalt-manganese (NCM) batteries, according to Kia President Song Ho Sung. The Chinese EV5 is expected to have a maximum range of 720 km (447 miles) and offer fast charging capabilities. Kia plans to tailor the South Korean version to meet market demands.
Kia's expansion into more affordable EVs aligns with growing demand from price-conscious consumers in the electric vehicle market.
