Kia is preparing to enter the increasingly competitive market for affordable electric vehicles with a new, ultra-compact model that may be badged the Kia EV1. The automaker aims to capitalize on growing consumer demand for lower-priced EVs, and could potentially unveil the vehicle at its next EV Day event.
What We Know About the Kia EV1 So Far
At its recent EV Day, Kia showcased a variety of anticipated models that are already making waves. The company presented the EV4, its first electric sedan and hatchback, along with the PV5, its inaugural dedicated electric business van. Kia also surprised onlookers by providing a glimpse of the EV2 concept, its smallest and newest model.
The compact (B-segment) crossover SUV will round out Kia’s “EVs for all” lineup, with vehicles priced from around $30,000 (EV2) to over $80,000 (EV9 GT). However, the company isn’t stopping there. During the event, Kia’s CEO, Ho Sung Song, emphasized the need for a smaller, more affordable EV positioned below the EV2.
Song stated, “I think the EV2’s major target is early majority customers…But if we want to move to the late majority customer target, we definitely need a lower size and a lower price.”
According to Song, Kia is already “internally studying what will be our entry EV product, apart from the EV2,” with a potential reveal as early as next year.
“And maybe at the next EV Day, we will show you,” Song teased attendees.
While specific details are scarce, the anticipated price point is under €30,000 (approximately $31,000), mirroring the anticipated cost of the EV2 when it launches next year.
The EV2 is planned to have two battery options. One will utilize LFP technology and offer at least 190 miles (300 km) of WLTP range. The other, an NMC battery, will be offered on higher-trim, long-range models, potentially providing up to 280 miles (450 km). Although precise specifications haven’t been released, the EV2 is expected to be around 3,800 mm in length, or slightly smaller than the Hyundai Inster EV (3,825 mm).
The upcoming EV1 is anticipated to be even more compact, measuring approximately 3,600 mm, which is about the size of the Kia Picanto.
Electrek’s Take
Kia is laying the groundwork for substantial growth in the coming years. Last year, the company sold over 200,000 EVs globally. With the EV3, EV4, EV5, EV9, and updated EV6 models in the pipeline, Kia is projecting sales of over 250,000 EVs in 2025, with 2026 expected to be even stronger. By 2030, Kia aims to sell 1.6 million electric cars, accounting for approximately 30% of its worldwide sales.
In addition to launching more affordable, mass-market models, Kia is also expanding into commercial electric vans. The company’s PBV (Platform Beyond Vehicle) line is a total mobility solution, or “fit-for-purpose EVs,” suitable for personal and business applications, including delivery services, pop-up shops, logistics, and ride-hailing.
