Kia unveils its EV4 battery-electric vehicle in Europe claiming a class-leading range of 391 miles (630 km) on a charge for its long-range sedan model.
The car, to be available in both sedan and hatchback body styles, also gives the choice of the standard 58.3-kWh battery pack, which claims a range of 267 miles (430 km), and the larger 81.4-kWh pack for the long-range version.
EV4, debuted at the Kia EV Day in Spain, also claims superior aerodynamics with a coefficient drag of just 0.23Cd aided by its fully shielded underbody.
Other performance claims include a 0-62-mph (97 km/h) sprint time of 7.4 seconds and a top speed of 105 mph (169 km/h) using a 201-hp electric motor and charging from 10% to 80% in 31 minutes for the long-range version using an 11-kW onboard charger that accepts both single-phase and three-phase inputs.
The standard version is not far behind, matching the top speed and with a sprint time of 7.7 seconds. Both use a 400V powertrain system on the automaker’s Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP) with vehicle-to-load external device charging and vehicle-to-grid bidirectional capability.
The long-range EV4 hatchback claims 366 miles (589 km) when fully charged, under WLTP standards.
All models employ a front suspension assembly including a BEV-tuned MacPherson strut design, with a multi-link setup and coil-over units at the rear.
This combines with first-in-class application of third-generation ‘SFD3’ frequency-responsive valves in the EV4’s suspension dampers and hydro G suspension bushing.
Connectivity for digital natives includes second-generation virtual key entry through an Apple Watch, third-gen i-Pedal variable regenerative braking, remote over-the-air software updates, voice-activated assistant and a 30-in. (76-cm) combined wide-screen display connected-car Navigation Cockpit.
Driver-assistance features include Kia’s Level 2 Highway Driving Assist 2 (HDA2) driver attention warning, forward collision avoidance assist, lane following assist, intelligent speed limit assist and remote parking assist entry.
Targeting Volkswagen's ID.3 compact car, the EV4 sedan is to be produced from mid-March at Kia’s Autoland Gwangmyeong EVO Plant in Korea, while the hatchback will be produced from Q3 in Kia’s Slovakian plant, targeting sales in Europe. Vehicle production for North America and other regions is planned for later in the year.
Kia President and CEO Ho Sung Song says: “The EV4 embodies that vision perfectly as a statement of our commitment to innovative design, cutting-edge technology and a connected driving experience that excites and inspires. The EV4 marks a significant step forward in our electrification journey, offering advanced technology and a choice of body styles for drivers seeking a seamless transition to electric mobility.”
