Kia Unveils its Most Affordable EV Yet – and Announces Electric Camper Van Plans
Kia is doubling down on its electric vehicle commitment with the reveal of both the EV2 and plans for versatile electric vans, including a camper van variant. The Korean automaker showcased its latest EV developments, signaling a significant push into the EV market.
The company presented the production-ready Kia EV4, available in both saloon (sedan) and hatchback models, alongside an EV2 show car. The EV2 provides a glimpse into Kia’s smallest and most budget-friendly EV to date. The new EV2 is expected to have chunky crossover styling and a unique interior design.
Kia’s EV2 is about the same size as the upcoming Renault 4 E Tech and the current Mini Aceman with sales anticipated to begin in Europe and South Korea next year.
There are no definite plans to bring this new vehicle to the US market. Even though the compact B-segment crossover isn’t particularly popular there, and the EV2 will be manufactured in Slovakia, a US release is unlikely.
Kia’s head of design, Karim Habib, described the interior design theme as a “picnic in the city,” where front seats can slide back for stretching out, and rear seats fold up to create a flat floor area.
Rear seats in the concept model slide towards the boot or trunk, with cushions that flip upwards to create a spacious area. The team wanted to include the flip up seats, but the long sliding rail for front seats and “suicide doors” were deemed unlikely for the production car. The suicide doors are considered too heavy and expensive currently.
The EV2 concept includes a projector system that can project messages onto the windows. Using the E-GMP platform, like other Kia models, the EV2 will have a 400V electrical architecture with similar charging times to the larger EV3, with a 10-80% charging time of around 30 minutes. The EV2 will also be one of the first Kia products to introduce a new Lithium-ion Phosphate (LFP) battery pack. Full battery range details will be released later, but it will possibly use the same 43.3kW and 51.5kW variants as those confirmed for the PBV van.
Kia’s Electric Van Plans
In addition to the EV2 announcement, Kia is investing in the world of electric Car Derived Vans (CDVs), with a focus on the European, Canadian, and Korean commercial vehicle markets. Kia plans to offer Cargo, Crew, and Chassis Cab options later this year. The platform will be highly modular so users can customize it for various needs from wheelchair accessible vehicles to freezer box vans.
Kia also recognizes the potential for private use, providing customers with a Passenger variant complete with three-row seating for up to seven people. Seats can be easily removed to create cargo space for lifestyle goods.
Kia will also launch a “Light Camper” version of the PV5, with a more extensive camper van conversion planned, including folding beds and kitchen amenities. Kia has also introduced “Add Gear” accessories to customize the interior.
The infotainment system in the PV5 uses an Android Automotive-based system, which may enable third-party apps, like Samsung’s IoT Pro, for fleet managers and small businesses. The company expressed the potential for more Android Automotive integration in future Kia cars, increasing the number of available entertainment apps. With an electric range of up to 250 miles, 30-minute fast charging, and a starting price of €35,000 (around $36,600 / AU$58,00), Kia aims to make an impact in the commercial vehicle sector.
