Kia EV set to go into production for late 2014 UK delivery

Anyone who has been reading my blogs will know that I am big into EVs. I am so happy that electric vehicles seem to be finally “getting out there” and becoming a more viable solution for many of us.

The newest announcement is that of the Kia Soul EV, which will be launched here in the UK later in the year. The Soul is an unusual but innovative vehicle that makes the most of the interior space; it is very popular with anyone seeking practicality and individuality.

Kia Soul EV Key Points:

• The high-capacity battery pack is 192-cell 27 kWh lithium-ion polymer
• The electric motor is 81.4 kW and this produces an instant 285 Nm (29 kg/m) of torque
• The new Kia Soul EV will reach 62 mph in just 11.2 seconds and it has a top speed of 90 mph
• The Kia Soul EV has a drive range of 131 miles which is certified for Europe
• Charging the Kia Soul EV is simple – it can be done via a standard household electricity supply and a full charge on a 6.6 kW AC slow charger will take up to five hours
• If the battery does not require a full charge, 80 percent of charge can be restored in 33 minutes using a 50kW DC charger, of 25 minutes if using a 100kW charger
• A new heat pump
• A new individual ventilation system that ensures maximum driving range is adhered to without loss of energy to power the heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC)
• A regenerative brake system that recycles the kinetic energy that is generated while the Soul EV is braking or being driven out of gear

Charging the Kia Soul EV

• Charging the Kia Soul EV is simple – it can be done via a standard household electricity supply and a full charge on a 6.6 kW AC slow charger will take up to five hours
• If the battery does not require a full charge, 80 percent of charge can be restored in 33 minutes using a 50kW DC charger, of 25 minutes if using a 100kW charger

Kia Soul EV new technology:

• A new heat pump
• A new individual ventilation system that ensures maximum driving range is adhered to without loss of energy to power the heating, ventilation and air-conditioning (HVAC)
• A regenerative brake system that recycles the kinetic energy that is generated while the Soul EV is braking or being driven out of gear

Of course, I will be looking to bring you some great deals when pricing is released but in the meantime, keep in touch with me @SamwaysCarTalk and of course, you can register your interest with Kia by clicking here.